sargassum

noun

sar·​gas·​sum sär-ˈga-səm 

: any of a genus (Sargassum) of brown algae that have a branching thallus with lateral outgrowths differentiated as leafy segments, air bladders, or spore-bearing structures : gulfweed

Examples of sargassum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Researchers are using satellite images to improve their ability to monitor and forecast when and where the sargassum mats could pile up on beaches. —Dinah Voyles Pulver, The Enquirer, 12 June 2024

Without human interference, and under normal conditions, sargassum is a good thing. —Farah Nibbs, The Conversation, 4 June 2024

The massive influx of sargassum has also disrupted fishing operations. —Farah Nibbs, The Conversation, 4 June 2024

Warmer-than-normal ocean temperatures also contribute to massive bleaching on the world's coral reefs and are thought to play a role in the increase of sargassum seaweed mats that blanket and stink up beaches and in harmful algal blooms and fish kills. —Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA TODAY, 2 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin, borrowed from Portuguese sargaço sargasso

First Known Use

circa 1890, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

sargassum

noun

sar·​gas·​sum sär-ˈgas-əm 

: any of a genus of brown algae that have a leafy branching body and air bladders and that often grow in free-floating masses in the ocean