underbrush

[ uhn-der-bruhsh ]

noun

1. shrubs, saplings, low vines, etc., growing under the large trees in a wood or forest.

underbrush

/ ˈʌndəˌbrʌʃ /

noun

1. undergrowth

Word History and Origins

Origin of underbrush¹

An Americanism dating back to 1765–75; under- + brush ²

Example Sentences

Consecutive 12-month periods with up to twice the normal amount of precipitation produced a lot of “smaller fuels” in the form of underbrush and grasses, he said, “and that ends up being the foundation for fires to very efficiently spread.”

From Los Angeles Times

Setting fires in the Sandhills of central North Carolina requires an understanding of moisture levels in the scrubby underbrush, and she gets a better sense of it in bare feet.

From Salon

Their use, coupled with selective clearing of smaller trees and underbrush in another Indigenous technique called thinning, reduces the severity, intensity, and tree mortality of wildfires.

From Salon

In 2022, around 11,000 acres were “treated” with underbrush removal, selective logging and preplanned burning.

From Seattle Times

The trail itself is notably thick with underbrush and can be junglelike in some spots, especially once you descend into Robe Canyon itself.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• thicket