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

Dishes range from lobster aguachile or deviled beet eggs to hearty mains like bone marrow short rib pappardelle or shrimp tamales with crispy yuca. —Brock Keeling, Oc Register, 6 Mar. 2026

The Rooftop Beverly Hills is a chic spot full of comfy couches in dark green where chef Peleg Miron’s team serve up lobster burgers, crispy tuna rice, and more to an appreciative crowd. —Tim Chester, Robb Report, 5 Mar. 2026

The chain may be known for its juicy steaks on the barbie, but its Steak and Mate menu pairs them with shrimp or lobster for Aussie-style flavor. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 2 Mar. 2026

There’s also a lobster roll served cold with mayo (Maine style) or warmed with butter (Connecticut-style). —Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 26 Feb. 2026

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