1. 1. Any of numerous trees or shrubs of the genus Ilex, usually having bright red berries and glossy evergreen leaves with spiny margins.
   2. Branches of these plants, traditionally used for Christmas decoration.
2. Any of various similar or related plants.

[Middle English holin, holi, from Old English holen.]

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.