1. Plural of mesquite; thorny shrubs or small trees of the legume family, native to southwestern North America and Mexico, bearing edible seed pods.
Usage: Often used in the context of desert vegetation or regional ecology.
2. The hard, dense wood of the mesquite tree, used for fuel, charcoal, and grilling.
Usage: Common in cooking and woodworking contexts.

Examples

• The desert landscape was dotted with mesquites that provided shade for wildlife.
• Mesquites are well-adapted to arid climates with minimal water.
• The rancher used mesquite wood to smoke the barbecue.
• Native peoples ground mesquite pods into flour for food.
• Several mesquites grew along the dry riverbed.
• Mesquite charcoal burns hot and is prized by grill masters.