Definition

A small, sharp hair or bristle found on some plants, like the prickly pear, that can cause irritation when touched.

Example

Be careful when handling the prickly pear, as it has glochids that can stick to your skin.

Conversation

Did you ever touch a prickly pear?

Yeah, I did once, and I got stuck with a few glochids.

Ouch! Those little hairs can be really annoying.

Totally! I learned to be more careful around those plants.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Glochid → The word originates from the Greek 'glochidion' (γλοχίδιον), which is a diminutive form of 'glochis' (γλόχης), meaning a small thorn or spine. Glochids refer specifically to the tiny, hair-like spines found on certain cacti that can irritate the skin.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for a small thorn ('glochidion') to remember that 'glochid' refers to those tiny, irritating spines on cacti.

Visually Confused Words