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Catkin - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A catkin is a slim, cylindrical flower cluster found on trees like willows and birches. It lacks petals and typically has either male or female flowers, often hanging down in clusters.

catkin

/ˈkætkɪn/ /ˈkatkɪn/

Definition:

A dense, cylindrical cluster of small flowers, typically found on willow or birch trees.

Synonyms:

ament, spike, inflorescence

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

leaf, branch

Common Collocations:

willow catkin, birch catkin, dangling catkin

Derivatives:

catkined, catkin-like

Usage Tips:

Use "catkin" to describe the fluffy flower clusters on certain trees in spring.

Common Phrases:

golden catkins, spring catkins, pussy willow catkins

Etymology:

Derived from Dutch "katteken," meaning "kitten," due to resemblance to a kitten's tail.

Examples:

  • 1. The willow tree's catkins swayed in the breeze.
  • 2. She collected birch catkins for her nature project.
  • 3. Catkins are often the first sign of spring.
  • 4. The fuzzy catkins attracted bees early in the season.

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