# shrub

/ˈʃɹəb/ (US) · /ʃɹˈʌb/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/shrub
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a woody plant that is smaller than a tree and has many stems growing from the ground. You might plant them in your garden to make a low wall or fence.

For teachers: a woody perennial plant of relatively low height, distinguished from a tree by having several stems rather than a single trunk.

## Examples

- We planted a small shrub near the front door.
- The gardener spent the afternoon pruning the evergreen shrubs to keep the hedge looking neat and tidy.
- While trees provide the upper canopy, these hardy shrubs create a dense undergrowth that offers essential protection for nesting birds and small mammals during the winter months.

## Usage notes

- Often used interchangeably with 'bush' in non-technical contexts.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.