thorn apple: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
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Quick answer
What does “thorn apple” mean?
A plant of the genus Datura, characterized by spiny fruit and toxic properties.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A plant of the genus Datura, characterized by spiny fruit and toxic properties.
Can refer to any plant with thorny fruit resembling an apple, or metaphorically to something attractive but dangerous.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'thorn apple' is less common and specific to Datura stramonium, while in American English, 'jimsonweed' is more frequently used.
Connotations
Both imply toxicity and danger; in American context, it is associated with weed control.
Frequency
Higher frequency in American English due to agricultural concerns.
Grammar
How to Use “thorn apple” in a Sentence
Used as a countable noun: 'a thorn apple'In botanical descriptions: 'the thorn apple, Datura stramonium,'Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “thorn apple” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The thorn-apple species is prevalent in Europe.
American English
- The thorn apple plant is considered a noxious weed.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare; may appear in agricultural reports or pesticide documentation.
Academic
Common in botanical, pharmacological, and ecological research.
Everyday
Uncommon; used in gardening contexts or regional dialects.
Technical
Standard in botany, toxicology, and herbal medicine.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “thorn apple”
- Pronouncing it as /θɔːn ə'peɪl/ instead of /θɔːn ˈæpəl/.
- Using it to describe any spiny fruit without the toxic association.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Historically, yes, but it is highly toxic and should only be used under professional supervision.
It can cause poisoning in livestock, leading to symptoms like dilated pupils and hallucinations.
Datura species are found worldwide, but Datura stramonium is common in temperate regions.
Seek immediate medical attention, as it can be life-threatening.
A plant of the genus Datura, characterized by spiny fruit and toxic properties.
Thorn apple is usually technical in register.
Thorn apple: in British English it is pronounced /θɔːn ˈæpəl/, and in American English it is pronounced /θɔrn ˈæpəl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Remember: 'Thorn' hurts, 'apple' is fruit, so it's a fruit that can hurt you with its toxins.
Conceptual Metaphor
A 'thorn apple' symbolizes deceptive attractiveness, where something looks good but is harmful.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is a synonym for 'thorn apple'?