Definition

Describing something that looks like a small bush or shrub, often with woody stems and branches.

Example

The fruticose lichen covered the rocks, giving them a greenish hue.

Conversation

Have you seen that new plant in the garden?

Yeah, it looks really interesting! What kind is it?

I think it's a fruticose variety; it has those thick, woody branches.

That makes sense! It definitely gives a unique look to the garden.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Fruticose is derived from "fruticosus" (meaning bushy or shrubby) in Latin, which comes from "frutex" (meaning shrub or bush). The word describes something that is bushy or resembling a shrub.

Memory Tip

Think of 'fruticosus' meaning bushy, which helps you remember that 'fruticose' refers to something that is bushy or shrub-like.

Visually Confused Words