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Definition of firethorn

firethorn

/ˈfaɪ.ɚˌθɔːrn/
fire · thorn
Plural:firethorns
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firethorn Lexical Profile

firethorn Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Any evergreen shrub of the genus Pyracantha in the rose family, native to southern Europe and Asia, characterized by dense, thorny branches and clusters of bright red or orange berries.

Example

"The gardener planted a row of firethorn along the property line to create a colorful, impenetrable hedge that would deter intruders."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for firethorn

• Nearby Words

firefinch
firefly
fireplace
firethorn
fireweed
firewood
firework

Word Origin & Etymology

A compound of the English words 'fire' and 'thorn', coined in the 17th century to describe the plant's bright red, flame-colored berries and its sharp, thorny branches. It serves as the common name for the botanical genus Pyracantha.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Firethorn. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/firethorn
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