Ilex
a tree often named in the Latin classics, the evergreen oak or holm oak (Quercus ilex). It is a native of most parts of the S. of Europe and of the N. of Africa, often attaining large dimensions, as it sometimes does when planted in Great Britain. The bark is very astringent, and is employed for tanning hides in the countries to which the tree is indigenous. Its wood is very hard and heavy, tough, durable, and useful, particularly for axles, pulleys, screws, and whatever is to be subjected to much friction. In modern botany ilex is the generic name of the holly.