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benthos

noun
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ben·​thos | \ ˈben-ˌthäs How to pronounce benthos (audio) \

Definition of benthos

: organisms that live on or in the bottom of a body of water

Examples of benthos in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Researchers believed that the remains of animals may have accounted for the benthos' carbon needs. — Eric Cheung, CNN, 15 Jan. 2020

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'benthos.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of benthos

1891, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for benthos

New Latin, from Greek, depth, deep sea; akin to Greek bathys deep

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Time Traveler for benthos

Time Traveler

The first known use of benthos was in 1891

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Dictionary Entries Near benthos

benthonic

benthos

benthoscope

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Cite this Entry

“Benthos.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/benthos. Accessed 27 Jun. 2022.

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More from Merriam-Webster on benthos

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about benthos

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