Definition

Noun: 1. A species of flowering plant: A European plant (Dipsacus fullonum, syn. Dipsacus sylvestris) of the teasel family, characterized by its prickly stem and leaves, and egg-shaped flower heads that are initially covered in spiny bracts and bloom with white to pale pink flowers. It is known for its historical use in textile processing and is now naturalized in other regions, including the United States.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The field was dotted with the tall, spiky forms of wild teasel.
  • Botanists study the invasive potential of wild teasel in North American ecosystems.
  • Unlike the fuller's teasel used in cloth-making, the wild teasel has stiffer, more hooked bracts.

Advanced Usage

• As a subject of ecological study: The term is often used in botanical and ecological contexts to discuss non-native or invasive species.
  • The spread of wild teasel along riverbanks can displace native riparian vegetation.

Variants and Related Words

• Teasel (n): The common name for plants of the genus . "Wild teasel" is a specific type of teasel.
• Fuller's teasel (n): A cultivated form () historically used for raising the nap on woolen cloth.
• Common teasel (n): Another name for , often used interchangeably with "wild teasel."

Synonyms

• Common teasel
• Dipsacus sylvestris (scientific synonym)
• Dipsacus fullonum (primary scientific name)

Related Phrases

• Teasel family: Refers to the plant family Dipsacaceae, to which the wild teasel belongs.

Noun

1. European teasel with white to pink flowers; naturalized in United States