lobster

noun

lob·​ster ˈläb-stər 

often attributive

1

: any of a family (Nephropidae and especially Homarus americanus) of large edible marine decapod crustaceans that have stalked eyes, a pair of large claws, and a long abdomen and that include species from coasts on both sides of the North Atlantic and from the Cape of Good Hope

2

: spiny lobster

lobsterlike

ˈläb-stər-ˌlīk 

adjective

Illustration of lobster

• lobster 1

Examples of lobster in a Sentence

I had lobster for dinner.

Recent Examples on the Web

Johnson hopes to keep options fresh with rotating monthly specials and seasonal soup offerings, including lobster bisque and cauliflower leek soup. —Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 31 Oct. 2025

When cooked, lion’s mane doesn’t taste like most mushrooms, but instead has a firm, meaty texture and a mild, seafood-like flavor that's often compared to crab or lobster. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 29 Oct. 2025

Many of the whales were found wrapped in fishing gear, primarily used to catch lobsters and crabs. —Erika I. Ritchie, Oc Register, 29 Oct. 2025

The company is known for its lobster rolls, clam chowder and other seafood dishes. —Paige Moore, AZCentral.com, 28 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English loppestre, from loppe spider

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing lobster

• hanging lobster claw
• lobster claw
• lobster pot
• lobster shift
• lobster thermidor
• lobster trap
• Norway lobster
• rock lobster
• spiny lobster

Rhymes for lobster

• mobster

Kids Definition

lobster

noun

lob·​ster ˈläb-stər 

: any of several large edible marine crustaceans with stalked eyes, a pair of large claws, and a long abdomen

also : spiny lobster