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Ocotillo - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Ocotillo is a spiny, desert shrub native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It has long, slender stems that bloom with red flowers after rainfall, often used in landscaping.

ocotillo

/ˌoʊkəˈtiːjoʊ/ /ˌɒkəˈtiːjəʊ/

Definition:

A spiny desert shrub with long canes and bright red flowers, native to the southwestern US and Mexico.

Synonyms:

candlewood, coachwhip, vine cactus

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

(none applicable for a specific plant)

Common Collocations:

desert landscape, arid regions, drought-resistant plants

Derivatives:

ocotillos (plural), ocotillo-covered (adj.)

Usage Tips:

Use "ocotillo" to describe the plant or its striking appearance in desert environments.

Common Phrases:

blooming ocotillo, ocotillo fence, ocotillo-covered hills

Etymology:

Derived from Spanish "ocotillo," diminutive of "ocote," meaning "pine torch," referring to its use as firewood.

Examples:

  • 1. The ocotillo thrives in dry climates.
  • 2. We saw a blooming ocotillo on our hike.
  • 3. The ocotillo's red flowers attract hummingbirds.
  • 4. Ocotillos are often used in desert landscaping.

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