strangler tree

9.5

A tree or vine that grows on another tree and sends roots down to surround and kill it

noun

: árbol estrangulador

Many rainforests are home to the strangler tree, which starts life high in the canopy and slowly chokes its support tree.

Examples

The ancient fig, known as a strangler tree, had grown around its host and completely enveloped it.
Ecologists studied how the strangler tree impacts biodiversity in tropical forests.
The strangler tree wrapped around the old oak.
Many strangler trees can be found in the Amazon rainforest.
The strangler tree slowly enveloped its host, cutting off sunlight and ultimately leading to its demise.
In tropical jungles, a strangler tree can often be seen climbing up a larger tree, absorbing nutrients and light.
The strangler tree sends down roots that wrap tightly around the trunk of its host, suffocating it over time.

Synonyms

strangler

vsstrangler tree

1 8.5

A tropical vine or tree that grows around another tree and kills it

is specific to the upright host-climbing form that sends down aerial roots

strangler fig

vsstrangler tree

1 8.5

A tropical tree that begins life on another tree then grows around and often kills it

is a general term for such plants not only this tropical species

Surface Forms

strangler tree singular

strangler trees plural

Morphology

strangler + tree

The meaning is directly derivable from the constituents: 'strangler' (one that strangles) + 'tree' yields a tree that strangles or envelops another tree. This is a literal, compositional noun-noun compound following a common attributive pattern, so a B1 learner who knows both words can reasonably infer the botanical meaning.

Etymology

Strangler tree gets its name from plants that start life on a host tree and send long roots down to wrap the trunk. Over years the roots and stems tighten and 'strangle' the host, so the strangler slowly kills the tree, which is why the name means a tree that 'kills' another tree.