Meaning & Definition of word "Coelacanth"
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Coelacanth
/ˈsiːləˌkænθ/
noun:
- 1. A rare deep-sea fish of the order Crossopterygii, known for its lobed pectoral fins and a unique evolutionary history, often referred to as a 'living fossil'.
- Example: The coelacanth was thought to be extinct for millions of years until it was rediscovered off the coast of Madagascar.
- 2. Any of the two extant species of coelacanths, particularly Latimeria chalumnae and Latimeria menadoensis.
- Example: Marine biologists are studying the behavior of the coelacanth to understand its adaptive features.
- 3. Used colloquially to refer to something that is outdated or a relic of the past.
- Example: His old car, a coelacanth of the automotive world, still ran smoothly despite its age.
Etymology
From Greek 'koilos' meaning 'hollow' and 'akanthos' meaning 'spine'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
living fossil:
Refers to an organism that has remained unchanged over a significant period of geological time.
Related Words
lobe-finned fish:
A group of fish that are charactized by fleshy, lobed fins.
fossil:
The preserved remains or impression of a prehistoric organism.
Slang Meanings of coelacanth
Meaning: A term for something outdated or out of touch.
Example Sentence: That idea is so coelacanth, it doesn't fit in today's world!
Meaning: Refers to something rare or unexpectedly found.
Example Sentence: Finding that old record in the attic was a real coelacanth moment.