cereus
|ce-re-us|
C1
/ˈsɪəriəs/
tall, slender cactus
Etymology
Etymology Information
'cereus' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'cereus,' meaning 'waxen' or 'candle-like,' referring to its tall, slender shape.
Historical Evolution
'cereus' was borrowed directly from Latin into English, maintaining its original form and meaning.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it referred to the waxen appearance of the plant, and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a type of cactus native to the Americas, often characterized by its tall, columnar shape.
The cereus blooms only at night, producing large, fragrant flowers.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/04/13 21:34