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
The new species of cactus worm—named Kraytdraco spectatus after the fictional krayt dragons from the Star Wars franchise because of its rows of teeth—exemplifies that impressive rate of evolution.
—
Sara Hashemi, Smithsonian Magazine, 29 July 2025
In addition to consuming saguaro fruit, the O’odham have used the cactus body for construction.
—The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 25 July 2025
The worms, also known as cactus worms, are mostly extinct today, but were widespread during the Cambrian.
—Kameryn Griesser, CNN Money, 24 July 2025
Both recommend using a cactus soil mix to help avoid the plant from becoming waterlogged, which can lead to root rot and ultimately, the plant’s demise.
—Michelle Mastro, Architectural Digest, 23 July 2025
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Sara Hashemi, Smithsonian Magazine, 29 July 2025
In addition to consuming saguaro fruit, the O’odham have used the cactus body for construction.
—The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 25 July 2025
The worms, also known as cactus worms, are mostly extinct today, but were widespread during the Cambrian.
—Kameryn Griesser, CNN Money, 24 July 2025
Both recommend using a cactus soil mix to help avoid the plant from becoming waterlogged, which can lead to root rot and ultimately, the plant’s demise.
—Michelle Mastro, Architectural Digest, 23 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for cactus
Cite this Entry
“Cactus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cactus. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.
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