Spanish needles

American  

noun

1. (used with a singular or plural verb) a composite plant, Bidens bipinnata, having achenes with downwardly barbed awns.

2. (used with a plural verb) the achenes themselves.

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Etymology

Origin of Spanish needles

An Americanism dating back to 1735–45; in allusion to its tropical American origin

Example Sentences

His ears and coat were plastered with autumn’s burrs and Spanish needles.

From "Frightful's Mountain" by Jean Craighead George

The hills, although seemingly utterly desolate, on a nearer view sometimes reveal considerable vegetation, including yuccas or "Spanish needles," which shelter the sands from the winds.

From North America by Russell, Israel C. (Cook)

I note that their gowns are liberally garnished with Spanish needles and cockleburs, and their shoes give evidence of contact with elemental mud.

From Reveries of a Schoolmaster by Pearson, Francis B.

After a long, hard day's work, he presented himself at the back door of "Al-f-u-r-d's" home, sunburnt and hands blistered, clothing torn, full of beggars-lice and Spanish needles.

From Watch Yourself Go By by Warden, Ben W.

Their mother told them the story of the Field of the Cloth of Gold, when they drove down the lane bordered with golden Spanish needles.

From What Two Children Did by Chittenden, Charlotte E.