castor-oil plant

/'kɑ:stər'ɔil'plɑ:nt/

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Explanation of "Castor-Oil Plant"

Definition: The "castor-oil plant" is a large shrub that grows in tropical regions of Africa and Asia. It has big, hand-shaped leaves and produces spiny capsules that contain seeds. These seeds are important because they are the source of castor oil, which is used in various products, including medicines and cosmetics. However, the seeds also contain a toxic substance called ricin, which can be dangerous.

Usage Instructions

• Noun: Use "castor-oil plant" when you are talking about the plant itself or its characteristics.
• Example: "The castor-oil plant has beautiful large leaves and grows well in warm climates."

Advanced Usage

In a more advanced context, you could discuss the plant's uses in agriculture or medicine, or even its role in ecosystems as an ornamental plant.

Word Variants

• Castor Oil: The oil extracted from the seeds of the castor-oil plant.
• Ricin: A toxic compound that is found in the seeds of the castor-oil plant.

Different Meanings

While "castor-oil plant" specifically refers to the shrub, "castor oil" refers to the oil produced from the seeds, which is used for medicinal and industrial purposes.

Synonyms

• Ricinus communis (the scientific name for the castor-oil plant)
• Castor bean plant

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs related to "castor-oil plant." However, you might come across the phrase "castor oil" in discussions about natural remedies or laxatives.

Example Sentences

1. General Use: "Many gardeners enjoy the striking appearance of the castor-oil plant in their tropical gardens." 2.

Academic

Noun

1. large shrub of tropical Africa and Asia having large palmate leaves and spiny capsules containing seeds that are the source of castor oil and ricin; widely naturalized throughout the tropics

Synonyms

• castor bean plant
• palma christi
• palma christ
• Ricinus communis