deciduous
|de-cid-u-ous|
B2
/dɪˈsɪdʒuəs/
leaf-shedding
Etymology
Etymology Information
'deciduous' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'deciduus,' where 'de-' meant 'down' and 'cadere' meant 'to fall.'
Historical Evolution
'deciduus' transformed into the French word 'décidu,' and eventually became the modern English word 'deciduous' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to fall down,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'shedding leaves annually.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
shedding leaves annually, typically used to describe trees or shrubs.
The oak tree is deciduous, losing its leaves in the fall.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45