n., pl., -lies.
- Any of numerous trees or shrubs of the genus Ilex, usually having bright red berries and glossy evergreen leaves with spiny margins.
- Branches of these plants, traditionally used for Christmas decoration.
- 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.