crown of thorns

noun phrase

: a starfish (Acanthaster planci) of the Pacific region that is covered with long spines and feeds on coral polyps sometimes causing destruction of coral reefs

called also crown-of-thorns starfish

Examples of crown of thorns in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
All other euphorbias, including the popular crown of thorns, will display the same shape of flowers. — Neil Sperry, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Mar. 2025 Relics, such as a crown of thorns believed to be worn by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion, were saved from the fire. — Eleanor Beardsley, NPR, 29 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1964, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of crown of thorns was in 1964

Rhymes for crown of thorns

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Browse Nearby Words

crown of the rose
crown of thorns
crown palm
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Cite this Entry

“Crown of thorns.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/crown%20of%20thorns. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about crown of thorns

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