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Glite Dictionary
slipper spurge

slipper spurge

9.9
A tropical shrub like a cactus with thick stems and foot-shaped flowers
  • noun
  • /ˈslɪpər spɜrdʒ/
  • US
translation icon : euphorbia pantufla
  • The slipper spurge thrives in warm, arid climates and is valued for its distinctive foot-shaped bracts.

Examples

  • Gardeners often mistake the slipper spurge for a cactus due to its succulent stems.

  • The slipper spurge thrives in warm, arid climates and is prized for its unusual bracts.

  • A mature slipper spurge can add a unique decorative touch to a tropical garden.

  • The slipper spurge thrives in warm climates.

  • Have you seen a slipper spurge before?

  • A mature slipper spurge can add a unique decorative touch to a tropical garden.

  • Gardeners often mistake the slipper spurge for a cactus due to its succulent stems.

Synonyms

slipper plant
vsslipper spurge
  • US
9.9

A tropical shrub with thick stems that store water and shoe-shaped flowers

is the alternative common name for the same plants
Pedilanthus
vsslipper spurge
  • Specialized
9.9

A tropical plant with thick stems or leaves and flowers shaped like a slipper

refers to individual plants called by a common name

Surface Forms

slipper spurge singular
slipper spurges plural

Morphology

slipper + spurge

The name is compositionally predictable: 'slipper' (a slipper-shaped form) modifies 'spurge' (a type of plant), so the phrase denotes a spurge with slipper-shaped bracts. Although it is a specialized botanical name, the noun+noun compounding follows normal English patterns and a B1 learner who knows both words can infer the meaning.

Etymology

Slipper spurge is named for the odd flower parts that look like tiny slippers, so slipper points to the shoe-like shape. The word spurge is the common name for this group of 'plants', so the full name simply tells you it is a 'plant' with slipper-like parts.