deciduous — English Dictionary

Adjective

1. Describing a part that falls off, or is shed, at a particular time or stage of development.

   Usage

   • not-comparable

   Antonyms

   persistentpermanent

   Examples

   In the Hippoidea there is generally the full series of 44 teeth, but the first premolar is often deciduous or wanting in the lower or in both jaws.

2. Of or pertaining to trees which lose their leaves in winter or the dry season.

   Usage

   • not-comparable

   Synonyms

   perdifoil

   Antonyms

   evergreensempervirent

   Examples

   . Compare caducous.

   a deciduous tree

   More examples (1)

   A light breeze causes the naked branches overhead to rattle like wooden windchimes. This is a popular retreat for couples in the summer. The deciduous trees provide a beautiful green canopy, far out of sight of teachers and fellow students. But now, in late winter, it feels like I'm standing under a pile of kindling.

3. Transitory, ephemeral, not lasting.

   Usage

   • Figurative
   • not-comparable

Adjective

1. (of plants and shrubs) shedding foliage at the end of the growing season

   Antonyms

   evergreen

2. (of teeth, antlers, etc.) being shed at the end of a period of growth

   Examples

   deciduous teeth