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

Families with young children can create art using natural paints made from plants grown at Descanso Gardens, including nopal cactus. — Pedro Moura, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2026

Seen thus far in black, metallic gold and iridescent dusty cactus looks, the Air Max Goadome Low Foamposite introduces an all-new Foamposite upper design. — Riley Jones, Footwear News, 23 June 2026

Combine equal parts of cactus potting soil, fine orchid bark, and perlite for fast drainage. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 19 June 2026

Jack Quaid wears a fun cactus button down and bright orange bag to Jimmy Kimmel Live! — Brendan Le, PEOPLE, 15 June 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