armored sea robin
- noun
- /ˈɑrmərd si ˈrɒbɪn/
- Specialized
- Unlike other fish in its habitat, the armored sea robin has distinctive bony scutes.
Examples
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The armored sea robin is often found in waters near the continental slope.
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Many armored sea robins inhabit the deep waters off the coast.
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Marine biologists recently studied the diet of the armored sea robin in the Gulf of Mexico.
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The armored sea robin is known for its unique appearance.
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Marine biologists recently studied the diet of the armored sea robin in the Gulf of Mexico.
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The armored sea robin is often found in waters near the continental slope.
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Unlike other fish in its habitat, the armored sea robin has distinctive bony scutes.
Synonyms
A fish that has bony plates on its sides and chin whiskers for finding food on the sea floor
A small sea fish with bony plates and chin whiskers that lives on the deep sea floor
A small sea fish with bony armor and spiny fins
How Armored
Surface Forms
Morphology
The words 'armored' and 'sea' directly signal a marine creature with protective plates, so much of the meaning (an armored sea-dwelling animal) can be inferred from the parts. However, 'robin' usually denotes a bird and here functions as a lexicalized species name for a fish, so a B1 learner may not predict the specific referent without prior exposure, making the phrase only partially transparent.
Etymology
Armored sea robin combines two images: sea robin is a fish that lives on the sea floor with wide fins like a bird's wings, and armored points to hard, bony plates on its body. Picture a small fish wearing a coat of plates like armor, and you see why the name means a sea robin with bony protection.