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Kudzu - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Kudzu is a fast-growing vine native to Asia, often considered invasive in other regions. It is known for covering plants and structures quickly, sometimes causing ecological damage.

kudzu

/ˈkʊdzu/ /ˈkʌdzuː/

Definition:

A fast-growing vine native to Asia, often invasive in the US, used for erosion control and fodder.

Synonyms:

vine, creeper, climber, invasive plant

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

native plant, slow-growing plant

Common Collocations:

kudzu vine, kudzu infestation, kudzu growth, kudzu control

Derivatives:

kudzus (plural), kudzulike (adjective)

Usage Tips:

Use "kudzu" to describe invasive vines or rapid overgrowth metaphorically in writing or speech.

Common Phrases:

kudzu takeover, spreading like kudzu, choked by kudzu

Etymology:

From Japanese "クズ" (kuzu), meaning "arrowroot," borrowed into English in the late 19th century.

Examples:

  • 1. The kudzu vine grows incredibly fast in warm climates.
  • 2. Farmers planted kudzu to prevent soil erosion decades ago.
  • 3. The abandoned house was completely covered by kudzu.
  • 4. Kudzu can overwhelm trees and other plants quickly.

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