Pronunciation of 'Selenicereus'
The word 'Selenicereus' refers to a genus of cacti known for their large, fragrant, night-blooming flowers. It is pronounced as 'səˌlɛnɪˈsɪəriəs' in English (en-US).
The word 'Selenicereus' originates from Greek and Latin. 'Selene' refers to the Greek goddess of the moon, and 'cereus' is Latin for 'wax candle', likely referencing the plant's appearance.
Pronunciation Details
English (United States)
A genus of cacti known for their large, fragrant, night-blooming flowers, commonly referred to as 'moonlight cactus'.
Pronounced as 'suh-LEH-nih-SEER-ee-uhs'. 'Suh' as in 'sofa', 'LEH' with stress, 'nih' as in 'nick', 'SEER' as in 'serious', and 'ee-uhs' as in 'us'.
Latin
Derived from 'Selene' (moon goddess) and 'cereus' (wax candle), referring to the plant's moonlight blooming and appearance.
Pronounced as 'seh-LAY-nee-KAY-reh-oos'. 'Seh' as in 'set', 'LAY' with stress, 'nee' as in 'knee', 'KAY' as in 'kay', and 'reh-oos' as in 'reuse'.