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nekton

noun
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nek·​ton | \ ˈnek-tən How to pronounce nekton (audio) , -ˌtän \

Definition of nekton

: free-swimming aquatic animals essentially independent of wave and current action

Other Words from nekton

nektonic \ nek-​ˈtä-​nik How to pronounce nekton (audio) \ adjective

First Known Use of nekton

1893, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for nekton

German Nekton, from Greek nēkton, neuter of nēktos swimming, from nēchein to swim — more at natant

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Dictionary Entries Near nekton

Nejd

nekton

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Cite this Entry

“Nekton.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nekton. Accessed 20 Aug. 2022.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about nekton

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