cichlid

noun

cich·​lid ˈsi-kləd 

: any of a family (Cichlidae) of mostly tropical spiny-finned usually freshwater fishes including several kept in tropical aquariums

cichlid adjective

Examples of cichlid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Martin Fly introduced the perfect outfit for South Florida anglers who are looking to get into fly fishing as well as experienced fly-rodders who are seeking an ideal setup for pursuing largemouth and peacock bass, as well as bluegills, Mayan cichlids and snakeheads in local lakes and canals. —Steve Waters, Miami Herald, 16 Aug. 2025

Hybridization among East African cichlids seems to have triggered an explosion in the diversity of certain genes important for eyesight, helping the animals navigate waters of varying murkiness and depth. —Katherine J. Wu, The Atlantic, 31 July 2025

Gonzalez spots an overhanging tree with dozens of fish — Mayan cichlids, oscars, tilapia and peacock bass, hovering in the dark shade below it. —Bill Kearney, Sun Sentinel, 22 May 2025

Fighting Fish Fish fighting is a sport in which two fish, often of aggressive species like bettas or cichlids, are placed in a small enclosure to engage in combat. —Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 3 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

from the base of New Latin Cichlidae, family name, from Cichla, a genus in the family (borrowed from Greek kíchlē "thrush, a species of wrasse," probably of pre-Greek substratal origin) + -idae -idae

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing cichlid

• chameleon cichlid