shellfish

noun

shell·​fish ˈshel-ˌfish 

: an aquatic invertebrate animal with a shell

especially : an edible mollusk or crustacean

Examples of shellfish in a Sentence

lobsters, crabs, and other shellfish

Recent Examples on the Web

Nutty and sweet coconut shrimp is a delightful way to enjoy shellfish. — Kate Williams, AJC.com, 17 Aug. 2026

Here's what to know about Vibrio vulnificus Public health specialists recommend washing hands with soap and water after handing raw shellfish and wearing gloves when possible. — ABC News, 17 Aug. 2026

When eating shellfish and oysters, people should also ensure that the products have been cooked and prepared properly to reduce the chances of infection. — Michelle Richardson, CBS News, 12 Aug. 2026

The bacteria thrives in warm coastal waters and can be contracted through open wounds or by eating raw shellfish. — Charlotte Observer, 11 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for shellfish

• bluefish
• catfish
• codfish
• crawfish
• dogfish
• finfish
• flatfish
• goldfish
• groundfish
• kingfish
• offish
• redfish

Kids Definition

shellfish

noun

shell·​fish ˈshel-ˌfish 

: an invertebrate animal that lives in water and has a shell

especially : an edible mollusk (as an oyster) or crustacean (as a crab)