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

Anticipate digital invites with minimalist text influenced by contemporary Southwest architecture, sunset gradients, cactus and agave symbols, and warm earth tones. —Craig Lebrau, AZCentral.com, 17 Feb. 2026

Fall As cactus growth slows, so does water use. —Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Feb. 2026

Made of a sturdy yet smooth fabric featuring cactus, this is the upscale answer to Lululemon’s best-selling belt bag. —Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 15 Feb. 2026

The Christmas cactus is said to bloom in celebration of Christ’s birth. —Clarence Schmidt, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Feb. 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