electric eel

American  

noun

1. an eellike, freshwater fish, Electrophorus electricus, found in the Amazon and Orinoco rivers and tributaries, sometimes over 6 feet (1.8 meters) long, capable of emitting strong electric discharges.

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electric eel British  

noun

1. an eel-like freshwater cyprinoid fish, Electrophorus electricus, of N South America, having electric organs in the body: family Electrophoridae

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Etymology

Origin of electric eel

First recorded in 1785–95

Example Sentences

Ash said he and the team bathed in the river at night with electric eel, caiman, sting rays, giant river otters and piranha.

From BBC • Oct. 11, 2024

Yet as the authors admit in the study, "this investigation represents the initial exploration of the uncharted impact of electric eel EOD, but it does not directly establish its significance within the natural environment."

From Salon • Dec. 11, 2023

The electric eel is the biggest power-making creature on Earth.

From Science Daily • Dec. 5, 2023

Avocado smoothies and electric eel pajamas aren't for everyone, and by everyone we mean definitely not Big Ben, who has spent the majority of his playing career acting like he's retired.

From Golf Digest • May 7, 2020

Nile perch and nkyende and electric eel dragged from the river.

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver