noun

mistletoe

MIHSL-toh

noun

A parasitic evergreen plant with white berries that grows on tree branches, traditionally hung as a Christmas decoration.

"They kissed under the mistletoe at the office party."

"A sprig of mistletoe hung above the doorway."

How to Use Mistletoe

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA festive plant with white berries, famous for the tradition that people standing beneath it may kiss.

Common pairings

kiss under the mistletoe hang the mistletoe

mistletoes plural

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They kissed under the _____ at the office party.

From Old English misteltān, from mistel ("mistletoe") plus tān ("twig"). The final syllable was later mistaken for "toe."

OE toe foe doe roe Joe hoe woe Zoe moe soe Coe