# acanthology

CEFR C2 · Noun

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

## Definition

the study of plants that have spines or sharp points, like cacti and thorny bushes.

For teachers: the branch of botany concerned with the study of plants with spines or prickles, particularly those belonging to the family Cactaceae.

## Examples

- He is a specialist in acanthology.
- The university's botany department offers a course in acanthology for students interested in desert ecosystems.
- Acanthology provides valuable insights into the evolutionary adaptations of desert flora, focusing on how spiny structures protect plants from herbivores and extreme heat.

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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.