redbud
redbud Lexical Profile
redbud Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Any of several deciduous flowering trees or shrubs of the genus Cercis in the legume family (Fabaceae), native to North America and Eurasia, cultivated for their dense clusters of magenta-pink to reddish-purple pea-like blossoms that emerge on bare twigs in early spring before the heart-shaped leaves unfold.
"The eastern redbud along the edge of the woodland burst into vibrant pink blossoms at the first sign of spring."
A small, low-branching deciduous understory tree of the genus Cercis, especially Cercis canadensis of eastern North America, characterized by a spreading crown, smooth dark bark, broad heart-shaped leaves, and flat brown seedpods.
"We planted a young redbud in the courtyard to provide light afternoon shade over the patio."
Word Origin & Etymology
An American English compound formed in the early 18th century from 'red' and 'bud', referring to the vivid magenta-red flower buds that appear along the bare branches in early spring.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.