English · Word Candidate

ivy

/ˈaɪvi/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: ivies

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Any of several woody, climbing, or trailing evergreen plants of the genus Hedera.

Noun

Examples

Hidden timber elements, lintels and roof tiles have also been replaced, in addition to gaining a new paint job and guttering drainage, and the removal of ivy that was damaging the exterior.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Any similar plant of any genus.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

A university that is part of the Ivy League.

NounRegister: informal

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “ivy” mean?

Any of several woody, climbing, or trailing evergreen plants of the genus Hedera.

Is “ivy” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.