grunion

noun

grun·​ion ˈgrən-yən How to pronounce grunion (audio)
: a silverside (Leuresthes tenuis) of the California coast notable for the regularity with which it comes inshore to spawn at nearly full moon

Examples of grunion 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.
See grunion run 2026 schedule for March The CDFW predicted when these grunion runs will occur at Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro, but the timing of runs will vary at different places along the coast. Paris Barraza, USA Today, 18 Mar. 2026 The female grunion burrows her body into the sand and lays her eggs. Laylan Connelly, Oc Register, 4 Mar. 2026 State and federal laws prohibit the work during the nesting seasons for endangered species of birds and during the spawning season for grunion, a fish species that lays its eggs on the beach. Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Sep. 2025 Spawning grunion shun the spotlight In spring and summer, during the few days following a full moon, teeming grunion pack the shorelines during dramatic spawning runs. Brian Handwerk, Smithsonian Magazine, 25 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for grunion

Word History

Etymology

probably from Spanish gruñón grunter

First Known Use

1917, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of grunion was in 1917

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Cite this Entry

“Grunion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/grunion. Accessed 3 Apr. 2026.

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