privet

[ priv-it ]

noun

1. any of various deciduous or evergreen shrubs of the genus Ligustrum, especially L. vulgare, having clusters of small white flowers and commonly grown as a hedge.

privet

/ ˈprɪvɪt /

noun

1. 1. any oleaceous shrub of the genus Ligustrum, esp L. vulgare or L. ovalifolium , having oval dark green leaves, white flowers, and purplish-black berries
   2. ( as modifier )

      a privet hedge

Word History and Origins

Origin of privet¹

First recorded in 1535–45; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of privet¹

C16: of unknown origin

Example Sentences

His gray hackles stiffened and his thick-set eyebrows bristled outward like bits of frosted privet.

From Project Gutenberg

As the strains died away and the couples moved off among the privet-lined paths, I went slowly down the terrace.

From Project Gutenberg

Then a little branch of privet comes and touches M. Flammarion's hand, apparently arriving from somewhere near the window.

From Project Gutenberg

The copper beech, the high privet hedge and the willows beyond it, shut out both light and air.

From Project Gutenberg

She made a charming picture as she walked slowly the length of the privet hedge and then turned towards the copper beech again.

From Project Gutenberg