Meaning & Definition of word "Deciduous"

Deciduous

/dɪˈsɪdʒ.u.əs/

adjective:

  • 1. Describing trees or shrubs that shed their leaves annually.
    • Example: The deciduous trees transformed the landscape with vibrant colors in the fall before shedding their leaves.
  • 2. Relating to plants that lose their leaves at a certain season.
    • Example: Deciduous forests are ecosystems characterized by trees that lose their foliage seasonally.
  • 3. Referring to animals that shed body parts for a seasonal or regular renewal.
    • Example: Some deciduous species, like certain deer, shed their antlers annually for growth.

Etymology

From Latin 'deciduus' meaning 'falling off'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

deciduous forest:

A forest characterized by trees that lose their leaves each year.

deciduous tree:

A tree that sheds its leaves at the end of the growing season.

Related Words

evergreen:

Referring to plants that retain their leaves throughout the year.

perennial:

Plants that live for multiple years without seasonal leaf loss.

Slang Meanings of deciduous

Meaning: To drop out or leave suddenly.

Example Sentence: When the project got too tough, he decided to go deciduous on us.