Definition

A type of plant that breaks off from its roots and is blown around by the wind, often found in dry areas.

Example

The tumbleweed rolled across the empty desert road.

Conversation

Did you see that tumbleweed blowing across the road yesterday?

Yeah, it was so random!

I always thought they only existed in movies.

Me too! It's funny how they actually do roll around in real life.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tumbleweed is formed from "tumble" (from Middle English *tumblen*, meaning to fall or roll) and "weed" (from Old English *wēod*, meaning a plant or herb). The word describes a plant that rolls or tumbles across the ground, especially in dry areas.

Memory Tip

Imagine a plant that 'falls' or 'rolls' ('tumble') across the ground, which is why we call it a tumbleweed.

Visually Confused Words