lobster

noun

lob·​ster ˈläb-stər How to pronounce lobster (audio)
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
lobsterlike adjective

Illustration of lobster

Illustration of lobster
  • lobster 1

Examples of lobster in a Sentence

I had lobster for dinner.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Thick pieces of fish and seafood, like lobster tails, salmon, and scallops. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 June 2025 For me, summer can only be properly kicked off with a lobster roll in hand. Kaitlyn Rosati, New York Daily News, 18 June 2025 The meal starts with a tiered tower of appetizers like lobster rolls, cornbread and beignets. Sabrina Weiss, People.com, 18 June 2025 Stop by Kiki’s and browse their eclectic selection of accessories, kid's clothing, home goods, and women’s wear—including the perfect Alpaca sweaters adorned with lobsters. Jacqueline Dole, Travel + Leisure, 15 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for lobster

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of lobster was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lobster.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lobster. Accessed 2 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

lobster

noun
lob·​ster ˈläb-stər How to pronounce lobster (audio)
: any of several large edible marine crustaceans with stalked eyes, a pair of large claws, and a long abdomen
also : spiny lobster

More from Merriam-Webster on lobster

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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