coelacanth

noun

coe·​la·​canth ˈsē-lə-ˌkan(t)th How to pronounce coelacanth (audio)
: any of an order (Coelacanthiformes) of lobe-finned fishes known chiefly from Paleozoic and Mesozoic fossils

Illustration of coelacanth

Illustration of coelacanth

Examples of coelacanth in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Tomatoes sold in 14 states recalled over salmonella risk: See map What are coelacanths? Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 7 May 2025 According to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, the coelacanth is one of the most famous living fossils. Avery Hurt, Discover Magazine, 18 July 2025 The most famous living fossil lis a fish called the coelacanth. Avery Hurt, Discover Magazine, 18 July 2025 This reportedly marked the first time a coelacanth was photographed in its natural habitat. Madison E. Goldberg, People.com, 2 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for coelacanth

Word History

Etymology

ultimately from Greek koilos hollow + akantha spine — more at cave

First Known Use

1857, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of coelacanth was in 1857

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Cite this Entry

“Coelacanth.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coelacanth. Accessed 21 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

coelacanth

noun
coel·​acanth
ˈsē-lə-ˌkan(t)th
: a fish or fossil of a group of mostly extinct fishes
coelacanth adjective

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