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Saguaro Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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saguaro

[səˈwɑːroʊ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

plant species

The saguaro is a large, tree-sized cactus native to the Sonoran Desert in Arizona, California, and Mexico. It can grow to be over 40 feet tall and live for over 150 years. The saguaro is known for its iconic shape, characterized by upward-reaching arms that typically begin to grow when the cactus reaches around 50-70 years of age. This majestic cactus provides a crucial habitat for many desert animals and plays an important role in the desert ecosystem.

Synonyms

cactus, flora, plant.

Examples of usage

  • We saw a stunning saguaro cactus during our hike in the desert.
  • The saguaro blooms beautiful white flowers in the spring.
  • Saguaro cacti can store up to 200 gallons of water.
  • Many birds make nests in the arms of the saguaro.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Saguaros can live for over 150 years. Some have been known to reach heights of up to 50 feet tall!
  • These cacti can weigh between 1,500 and 2,200 pounds when fully hydrated because they store significant water in their stems.

Ecology

  • Saguaros play a vital role in their desert ecosystem by providing food and shelter for various animals, including birds, bats, and insects.
  • They are also important for biodiversity, as their flowers attract pollinators like bees and bats during the blooming season.

Cultural Significance

  • In Arizona, the saguaro is a symbol of the desert landscape and is often featured in art, literature, and photography.
  • They are protected by law in Arizona, and removing or damaging them can lead to heavy fines.

Pop Culture

  • Saguaros have appeared in many films and TV shows that depict desert landscapes, making them iconic representations of the American Southwest.
  • They are often linked with the Wild West theme, appearing in movies featuring cowboys and desert adventures.

Origin of 'saguaro'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'saguaro' comes from the Native American language of the Pima people, where it was originally pronounced as 'saguar'.
  • It is part of the 'Carnegiea' genus, named after the American industrialist Andrew Carnegie, who was known for his philanthropic efforts.

The word 'saguaro' comes from the O'odham language, which is spoken by the Native American tribes of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. The term was adopted into English in the late 19th century as the cactus became a symbol of the American Southwest. The saguaro cactus itself has been an important component of the desert landscape for centuries, providing food and shelter to various wildlife. Its unique appearance and size have made it a subject of interest in art, literature, and ecology. Preservation efforts for the saguaro have become increasingly important as urban development and climate changes threaten its natural habitat.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,485, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.