beggar's-ticks
Definition
Noun 1. A plant with clinging seeds: Any of several weedy plants belonging to the genus Bidens, characterized by small yellow flowers and producing dry fruits (achenes) with barbed spines that easily attach to animal fur or clothing.
Usage
The term "beggar's-ticks" is used primarily to identify a specific type of plant known for its troublesome, sticky seeds. * The dog came back from the field covered in beggar's-ticks. * We spent the afternoon pulling beggar's-ticks from our socks.
Advanced Usage
- The name functions as a common noun and is typically used in the plural form ("beggar's-ticks") to refer to the seeds themselves or to a collective presence of the plant.
- It is often used descriptively to illustrate a nuisance caused by nature, as in:
Variants and Related Words
- Beggar-ticks: An alternate spelling, sometimes written without the apostrophe and 's'.
- Bidens: The scientific genus name for these plants.
- Bur marigold: A common name for some species within the genus.
- Sticktight: Another common name highlighting the seed's clinging characteristic.
Synonyms
- Clinging burrs
- Stickseed (a general term for plants with adhesive seeds)
Notes on Meaning
The term specifically refers to the plant and its seeds. It is not used idiomatically to describe a person. The name originates from the seed's resemblance to ticks and its propensity to "beg" a ride by attaching to passersby.
Noun
-
any of several plants of the genus Bidens having yellow flowers and prickly fruits that cling to fur and clothing
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