Definition

Describing something that is covered with spines or bristles, making it prickly to touch.

Example

The echinate plant had sharp spines that deterred animals from eating it.

Conversation

Have you seen that plant with the echinate leaves in the garden?

Yeah, I did! It looks so interesting and a bit prickly.

I wonder if it's easy to take care of, though.

I heard it needs a lot of sunlight, but those echinate features make it unique.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Echinate → It is formed from "echinatus" (from Latin, meaning spiny or prickly) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating having the quality of). The word "echinate" describes something that has the quality of being spiny or prickly.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'spiny' ('echinatus') — that's why echinate means having spines or prickles.

Visually Confused Words