Definitions

from The Century Dictionary.

  • noun In Mexico, a name applied to resinous splints of pine-wood, especially those of Pinus Teocote, used in the market-places and churches as torches and candles.
  • noun The stems and splints of stems of other plants, especially those of Fouquieria splendens and allied species, which contain resin and a peculiar wax, and burn with a fragrant aromatic odor.

Etymologies

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Examples

  • By mid-afternoon the chaparral had disappeared and only the cactus remained -- the ocotilla, covered with a million flowers, wave upon wave of crimson flame, against the yellow earth.

    Through the Grand Canyon from Wyoming to Mexico

  • The ocotilla or candlewood with long, lash-like stalks springing from a common centre -- that cactus, which, when dried, needs only a lighted match to set it afire -- flourishes in the rocky ledges.

    Through the Grand Canyon from Wyoming to Mexico

  • The camp was set in the shelter of a huge rock pile, purple, black, yellow and crimson in color, with a single giant ocotilla growing from the top.

    The Enchanted Canyon Honor�� Morrow 1910

  • Bear grass and yucca, barrel and fish-hook cactus as well as the ocotilla appeared.

    The Enchanted Canyon Honor�� Morrow 1910

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