Definition

A type of grass that has a spiny, round covering around its seeds, commonly found in the eastern United States and tropical America.

Example

Be careful when walking through the field; the sandbur can stick to your clothes and skin.

Conversation

Have you ever stepped on a sandbur?

Yeah, I remember that from last summer!

They really hurt when you accidentally step on them.

Totally! I always try to avoid those spiky little things.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'sandbur' is formed from 'sand' (from Old English 'sand', meaning loose granular material) and 'bur' (from Old English 'bur', meaning a thorny or prickly plant). The term 'sandbur' refers to a prickly plant that typically grows in sandy areas.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sand' as the loose material found on beaches and 'bur' as a thorny plant — together, they describe a prickly plant that grows in sandy places.

Visually Confused Words