thistle

• Nom masculin désignant diverses plantes épineuses de la famille des Astéracées, notamment des genres Carduus, Cirsium et Onopordum, caractérisées par des feuilles et des tiges épineuses et des capitules souvent violets ou pourpres.

A noun referring to any of numerous plants of the family Compositae, especially of the genera Carduus, Cirsium, and Onopordum, characterized by prickly-edged leaves.

1. Prickly plantB2formal

   Any of numerous plants of the family Compositae, especially of the genera Carduus, Cirsium, and Onopordum, characterized by prickly-edged leaves and often purple flower heads.

   Chardon

   • The field was overgrown with thistles and weeds.
   • He carefully avoided the thistle's sharp spines while walking.
   • Thistles are often considered a nuisance in gardens.

2. B2formalbritish

   A thistle is the national emblem of Scotland, symbolizing resilience and pride.

   Chardon (emblème national de l'Écosse)

   • The thistle appears on the Scottish coat of arms.
   • Scottish souvenirs often feature the thistle design.
   • The thistle is a proud symbol of Scotland's heritage.