Washington thorn

noun

1. a dense tree, Crataegus phaenopyrum, of the rose family, native to the eastern coast of the U.S., having triangular leaves, small clusters of white flowers, and clusters of bright red fruit.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Washington thorn¹

An Americanism dating back to 1840–50

Example Sentences

The Washington thorn, Crataegus phaenopyrum Med., is a smaller tree, with bright red fruit, but its broad leaves are smooth and bright green.

From Project Gutenberg

The haws of C. cordata, the Washington Thorn, are small, but a brilliant orange.

From Project Gutenberg

Let us believe it was the Washington thorn, which grows on the banks of streams from Virginia to the Gulf, and loads heavily with small red fruit.

From Project Gutenberg