barrel cactus

noun

1. any of several large, cylindrical, ribbed, spiny cacti of the genera Echinocactus and Ferocactus.

Word History and Origins

Origin of barrel cactus¹

An Americanism dating back to 1880–85

Example Sentences

The plants within are keyed to the word’s meaning — tough barrel cactus for the former, fragrant sage for the latter.

From Los Angeles Times

The front yard, with its barrel cactus, ponytail palms and Australian cactus collection, pays homage to the iconic neighboring botanical garden, Lotusland.

From Los Angeles Times

Plants saved in several locations for three years for eventual landscaping included saguaro, ocotillo and barrel cactus and palo verde, mesquite and ironwood trees.

From Washington Times

The barrel cactus’s shape and height would make a good spot to rest weary legs if not for the interlacing spikes encircling them.

From Salon

Prickly pear and barrel cactus dotted the ground, while swallows, yellowthroats, and meadowlarks soared above.

From The Guardian