deciduous

adjective

de·​cid·​u·​ous di-ˈsi-jə-wəs 

-jü-əs

1

biology : falling off or shed seasonally or at a certain stage of development in the life cycle

deciduous leaves

deciduous scales

2

biology

a

: having deciduous parts

maples, birches, and other deciduous trees

deciduous dentition

b

: having the dominant plants deciduous

a deciduous forest

3

: ephemeral

There is much that is deciduous in books …

—J. R. Lowell

deciduousness noun

Synonyms of deciduous

• temporary
• flash
• brief
• transient
• passing
• ephemeral
• transitory

Examples of deciduous in a Sentence

the bare branches of a deciduous tree in winter

he chose not to fret about the deciduous discomforts of his existence

Recent Examples on the Web

For a smaller variety, consider dawn redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides), a deciduous conifer that is similar in appearance. —Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 9 Feb. 2026

Skeleton flowers are deciduous perennials that die back in winter and sprout from the root crown again in spring. —Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Feb. 2026

For example, there’s a good reason that sites along streets are often planted with hackberry (Celtis occidentalis), a handsome native tree; gingko (Ginkgo biloba), an Asian species known for its golden-yellow fall color; and bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), a deciduous conifer. —Beth Botts, Chicago Tribune, 1 Feb. 2026

The deciduous saucer magnolia’s floral display is enhanced by the fact that flowering takes place when the tree is still leafless. —Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 31 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin deciduus, from decidere to fall off, from de- + cadere to fall — more at chance

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing deciduous

• deciduous tooth

Kids Definition

deciduous

adjective

de·​cid·​u·​ous di-ˈsij-ə-wəs 

1

: falling off (as at the end of a growing period or stage of development)

antlers are deciduous

deciduous leaves

2

: having deciduous parts or members with deciduous parts

deciduous trees

a deciduous forest

Medical Definition

deciduous

adjective

de·​cid·​u·​ous di-ˈsij-ə-wəs 

1

: falling off or shed at a certain stage in the life cycle

2

: having deciduous parts

a deciduous dentition