Definition of "cereus" [cereus]

• Any of several cacti of the genus Cereus or closely related genera, such as a night-blooming cereus. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• ""Cousin Jasper," he said, "didn't I tell you that the gardener wanted you to know that the night-blooming cereus is open just now?"
• "Bacillus cereus which is found in soil and dust and was probably brought into the vehicle on the shoes of car occupants and the paws of pets was on the door handles, gear stick, car mats and also under the seats."
• "Two Japanese yard-boys were trimming hibiscus, a third was engaged expertly with the long hedge of night-blooming cereus that was shortly expectant of unfolding in its mysterious night-bloom."