# acanthocarpous

CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/acanthocarpous
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

having seeds that are covered with small, sharp points or spines. This is a technical word used by scientists to describe certain types of plants.

For teachers: having seeds that are armed with spines or prickles. Often used in botanical classification to describe specific families or genera.

## Examples

- The acanthocarpous seeds are difficult to remove from clothing.
- The botanist noted that the plant was acanthocarpous, which explained why the seeds were so easily dispersed by the wind.
- While many legumes have smooth, flat seeds, this particular species is acanthocarpous, featuring a unique protective layer of sharp spines that deter most herbivores.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.