01 n. A plant with a slender woody stem bearing stout prickles; especially, species of Rosa, Rubus, and Smilax.
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1.
A plant with a slender woody stem bearing stout prickles; especially, species of Rosa, Rubus, and Smilax.
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2.
Fig.: Anything sharp or unpleasant to the feelings.“The thorns and briers of reproof.” — Cowper.
Phrases & compounds
Brier root —
the root of the southern Smilax laurifolia and Smilax Walteri; -- used for tobacco pipes. See also 2nd brier.
Cat brier —
several species of Smilax (Smilax rotundifolia, etc.)
Sweet brier —
See Sweetbrier.
Yellow brier —
the Rosa Eglantina.