cactus

noun cac·tus \ ˈkak-təs \

|Updated on: 11 Jun 2018

Definition of cactus

plural cacti play \-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)

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Recent Examples of cactus from the Web

O’Neil said if someone is caught stealing a cactus, the thief could face felony charges.

— charlie lapastora, Fox News, "Park rangers using microchip technology to track down cactus thieves," 7 June 2018
Several streets away, Mohammad Amiri, 27, stood on the pavement, selling cactuses.

— New York Times, "As Nuclear Sanctions Loom, ‘Normal Life’ Is Elusive for Iranians," 10 May 2018
Several manzanitas, Opuntia cactus, agaves, and spiky Dasylirion wheeleri ensure a cohesive look. Punches of color--including a magenta bougainvillea and a spray of hot pink flowers from a Hesperaloe--provide eye-catching contrast.

— Sunset, "How to Grow a Desert Garden Anywhere," 22 Jan. 2018
Learn more than just a name, however, with audio tips like how to incorporate cactuses into your garden or how paloverdes shade other plants.

— sonja haller, azcentral, "Ultimate Arizona bucket list: 15 things to do in Glendale," 18 Feb. 2015
It is filled with uncharted slot canyons, flesh-seeking cactus, perilous drop-offs and expansive views.

— annette mcgivney, Outside Online, "300 Flights Through the Grand Canyon's Helicopter Alley," 24 May 2018
The gel-like formula is filled with anti-inflammatory cactus juice, skin-soothing bija seed oil, and, of course, Centella asiatica, all of which work together to wrap your face in a protective, coddling hug.

— chloe metzger, Marie Claire, "Why You’re About to See “Cica,” a New Magical Beauty Ingredient, Everywhere," 16 May 2018
Taking a page from their Mexico City location, Chef Roberto Tostado designed a menu for Gino’s Pilsen storefront that implements Mexican staples like avocado, cactus, chorizo, pico de gallo, al pastor salsa and Oaxacan cheese.

— jacqueline serrato, RedEye Chicago, "Pilsen neighborhood guide: What to eat, drink and do," 7 Sep. 2017
These colorful cacti have blooming periods corresponding to the holidays, hence their common name.

— the editors of organic life, Good Housekeeping, "How To Keep Your Christmas Cactus Blooming Year After Year," 29 Dec. 2016

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'cactus.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.