Definition

Referring to plants or trees that lose their leaves in the fall and grow new ones in the spring.

Example

The deciduous trees in the park change color beautifully in autumn.

Conversation

Did you know that some trees are deciduous and shed their leaves in the fall?

Yeah, I love how they change colors before they drop their leaves.

Exactly! It makes the scenery so beautiful during autumn.

I agree! Those deciduous trees really give us a stunning view.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Deciduous is formed from "deciduus" (from Latin, meaning falling off) and the suffix "-ous" (meaning full of or having the quality of). The word describes trees or plants that shed their leaves annually, hence, they are characterized by the quality of falling off their leaves.

Memory Tip

Think of trees that are 'full of' ('-ous') leaves that 'fall off' ('deciduus') each year — that's what deciduous means.

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