ENGLISH
REFERENCE

acacia

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //əˈkeɪʃə// UK //ɐkˈeɪʃɐ// aca·cia

n. a type of tree or shrub that usually has yellow or white flowers and grows in warm parts of the world. Many kinds have sharp thorns and produce a sticky liquid used in food and glue.

n. any of various trees or shrubs belonging to the genus Acacia, native to tropical and subtropical regions. Characterised by bipinnate leaves or phyllodes and small, globose flowers; many species yield gums or tannins of commercial value.


SIMPLE

The giraffe eats leaves from the tall acacia tree.

CONTEXTUAL

The vast African savanna is dotted with flat-topped acacia trees that provide shade for local wildlife.

COMPLEX

Botanists noted that the local acacia species had developed symbiotic relationships with ant colonies, which protected the foliage from herbivores in exchange for nectar and shelter.

Usage

Often used as a collective noun when referring to the wood or the genus as a whole.

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