# acanthocladous

CEFR C2 · Adjective

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

## Definition

having leaves that are covered in small, sharp points or spines. You might see this in some types of plants that grow in dry or hot areas.

For teachers: characterised by leaves that are armed with small, sharp spines or prickles. Often used to describe plants in the family Acanthaceae or specific species with such defensive structures.

## Examples

- The acanthocladous leaves help the plant survive in the desert.
- Botanists identified the plant as acanthocladous due to the dense covering of tiny spines on its foliage.
- The acanthocladous nature of the plant's leaves serves as a primary defense mechanism against herbivores, while also reducing water loss through transpiration in arid environments.

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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.