IPA: /əˈkjuːliəs/
KK: /əˈkjuːliəs/
A small, sharp point or thorn that can be found on plants, like some types of brambles and roses, or it can refer to a sting.
The aculeus of the rose can be quite sharp and painful if touched.
Aculeus is derived from Latin 'aculeus' (meaning a thorn or a small point). The word refers to a sharp or pointed structure, often used in biological contexts to describe stingers or spines.
Picture a small 'thorn' or 'point' — that's what aculeus means, referring to something sharp or pointed.