neuston

noun

neus·ton ˈnü-ˌstän

ˈnyü-

: minute organisms that float in the surface film of water

Examples of neuston in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The Sargasso was previously the only ocean spot known to host neustons in such high densities, researchers reported Thursday in the journal PLOS Biology. —

Mindy Weisberger, CNN, 5 May 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'neuston.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

German, from Greek, neuter of neustos swimming, from nein to swim — more at natant

First Known Use

1928, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of neuston was in 1928

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Neuston.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neuston. Accessed 15 Sep. 2024.

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