noun
- Plural of greenbrier; thorny, woody vines of the genus Smilax, native to North America, with prickly stems and small greenish flowers.
Usage: Also called catbrier or horsebrier; Common in woodlands and thickets
Examples
- The hikers had to push through dense greenbriars to reach the forest trail.
- Greenbriars produce small black berries that wildlife feed on in autumn.
- The fence was overgrown with greenbriars and other climbing vines.
- Greenbriars are known for their sharp thorns that can tear clothing.
- Many southern woodlands are characterized by thick patches of greenbriars.