cactus

noun

cac·​tus ˈkak-təs 

plural cacti ˈkak-ˌtī 

-(ˌ)tē

or cactuses also cactus

: any of a family (Cactaceae, the cactus family) of plants that have succulent stems and branches with scales or spines instead of leaves and are found especially in dry areas (such as deserts)

Examples of cactus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Attendees wearing cowboy hats line danced, petted fluffy white calves and posed for pictures in front of an inflated cactus. —Seema Mehta, Los Angeles Times, 12 Apr. 2026

Avoid repotting plants that are in bloom in spring, such as the Easter cactus. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Apr. 2026

Dragon fruit can be a fun addition to your garden; this tropical cactus has numerous health benefits, too. —Rae Ford, Martha Stewart, 12 Apr. 2026

What makes this time truly special is the stunning display of cactus blooms, with their vibrant magentas, reds, whites, and yellows. —Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 9 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, genus name, from Latin, cardoon, from Greek kaktos

First Known Use

1738, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing cactus

• barrel cactus
• cactus wren
• Christmas cactus
• giant cactus
• organ pipe cactus
• prickly pear cactus
• Queen of the Night cactus
• rattail cactus

Rhymes for cactus

• actus
• practice
• practise
• tractus
• malpractice

Kids Definition

cactus

noun

cac·​tus ˈkak-təs 

plural cacti -ˌtī 

-(ˌ)tē

or cactuses also cactus

: any of a large family of flowering plants able to live in dry regions and having fleshy stems and branches that bear scales or prickles instead of leaves