cactus

[ kak-tuhs ]

noun

, plural cac·ti [kak, -tahy], cac·tus·es, cac·tus.

1. any of numerous succulent plants of the family Cactaceae, of warm, arid regions of the New World, having fleshy, leafless, usually spiny stems, and typically having solitary, showy flowers.

cactus

/ kækˈteɪʃəs; ˈkæktəs /

noun

1. any spiny succulent plant of the family Cactaceae of the arid regions of America. Cactuses have swollen tough stems, leaves reduced to spines or scales, and often large brightly coloured flowers
2. cactus dahlia
   cactus dahlia a double-flowered variety of dahlia

Derived Forms

• cactaceous, adjective

Other Words From

• cactus·like cactoid adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of cactus¹

1600–10; < Latin < Greek káktos cardoon

Word History and Origins

Origin of cactus¹

C17: from Latin: prickly plant, from Greek kaktos cardoon

Example Sentences

It all sounds a bit dramatic, but that cactus feels like something special.

From The Daily Beast

Another choice is agave nectar, made from a type of cactus that grows in Mexico (yes, tequila fans, that cactus).

From The Daily Beast

“There is nothing but cattle, cactus, rocks, and steep canyons,” said Bisbee, Ariz., City Council member Ransom Burke.

From The Daily Beast

At one point, the pair burst from the camp and fled, scampering barefoot over rocky, cactus-spotted terrain.

From The Daily Beast

Here cemitas are filled with potatoes, tender cactus, onions, jalapeños, and lots of Oaxacan cheese.

From The Daily Beast

The cactus is very common all over the Island, and miles of it are seen growing in the hedges.

From Project Gutenberg

Half hidden by a growth of cactus and tangled vines, yawned a dark cavernous hole.

From Project Gutenberg

Another kind of cactus has crimson and scarlet blossoms, but no prickly pears.

From Project Gutenberg

Here and there a cactus plant thrust spiny arms into the air.

From Project Gutenberg

We stood mute and motionless behind the cactus, discreetly, or indiscreetly, watching her.

From Project Gutenberg