sumac

sumac Definition

su·mac (so̵̅o̅′mak′, s̸ho̵̅o̅′-)

noun

any of various shrubs and small trees (genus Rhus) of the cashew family, including poison sumac and several nonpoisonous plants
the pulverized dried leaves of some of these nonpoisonous plants (esp. Rhus coriaria), used in tanning and dyeing
the wood of any of these plants

Etymology: ME sumac < MFr < Ar summāq

sumac Usage Examples

Modifies a noun

tree: The sumac tree was another favorite with thick, gently curving branches, ideal for resting on.

Noun used with modifier

poison: Posted by Richard on 8 November, 2004 at 6:12 PM It looks like poison sumac to me.

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