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

Huachuma, whose Latin name is Echinopsis pachanoi, is a tall cactus that grows along the spine of the Andes, the mountain range on South America’s western side. — Pardis Mahdavi, The Conversation, 8 Sep. 2026

As the weather cools, the park’s cartoonish boulders, outlandish flora and winding trails become more approachable (but don’t get too close to those jumping cholla cactuses). — Los Angeles Times, 8 Sep. 2026

This style will also come in four colors — cactus clay, chocolate, smoked maple and French navy. — Stephen Garner, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2026

The design reflects the cycles of the moon and the short life of the cactus flower, giving this important structure a unique and personal feel. — Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 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