moray eel

noun

: any of numerous often brightly colored eels (family Muraenidae) that have sharp teeth capable of inflicting a severe bite, that occur in warm seas, and that include a chiefly Mediterranean eel (Muraena helena) sometimes used for food

called also moray

Examples of moray eel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The reef is ideal for spotting colorful fish, turtles, moray eels, nurse sharks, and even the occasional eagle ray gliding gracefully through the deep. Judy Koutsky, Forbes.com, 21 Apr. 2025 However, most moray eels specifically adapted to an estuary habitat with mixed salt and fresh water are considered rare. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 2 Jan. 2025 Those fish can include barracuda, moray eel, sea bass and others. Nathan Diller, USA TODAY, 10 Jan. 2025 This moray eel is dark brown and appears to be an expert burrower. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 2 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for moray eel

Word History

Etymology

Portuguese moréia, from Latin muraena, from Greek myraina

First Known Use

1926, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of moray eel was in 1926

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Cite this Entry

“Moray eel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/moray%20eel. Accessed 4 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

moray eel

noun
mo·​ray eel mə-ˈrā- How to pronounce moray eel (audio) ˈmȯr-ā- How to pronounce moray eel (audio)
: any of numerous often brightly colored eels that have sharp teeth capable of biting and live in warm seas

called also moray

More from Merriam-Webster on moray eel

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