nannyberry
nannyberry Lexical Profile
nannyberry Game Scores & Validity
• noun
North American A large North American shrub or small tree (Viburnum lentago) in the honeysuckle family, featuring shiny leaves, flat-topped clusters of white flowers, and edible dark fruit.
"We planted a nannyberry along the property line to provide a natural screen and attract local birds."
North American The sweet, edible, bluish-black drupe produced by the nannyberry shrub, often consumed by wildlife and occasionally used in jams.
"During our autumn hike, the guide showed us how to identify the ripe, dark nannyberries hanging from the branches."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
A compound of 'nanny' and 'berry', originating in the 19th century. The name likely arose because nanny goats were observed to be particularly fond of the foliage and fruit, or because the overripe berries occasionally emit a scent reminiscent of goats.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.