scorpionfish

1 9.1

A fish with a pointed body and venomous spines that lives in warm seas

noun
/ˈskɔːrpiənˌfɪʃ/

: pez escorpión

Many species of scorpionfish are masters of disguise, blending seamlessly into their coral reef habitats.

Examples

Divers often admire the unique appearance of the scorpionfish, known for its spiny armored head.
The scorpionfish is known for its venomous spines.
A fisherman caught a rare scorpionfish during his trip in the tropical waters.
Divers are advised to avoid touching the scorpionfish because of its venomous spines.
The vibrant coloration of a scorpionfish helps it blend into coral reefs while waiting for prey.
Many divers are cautious of the scorpionfish due to its sting.
The scorpionfish uses its venomous spines for protection against predators in warm seas.

Synonyms

scorpion fish

vsscorpionfish

1 7.9

A sea fish with a pointed body and spines that give a painful sting

is identical in meaning but written as one word

sea scorpion

vsscorpionfish

Specialized

8.8

A fish that lives near the coast with a narrow body, armored head, and venomous spines

is found especially in warm seas rather than coastal waters

Scorpaena

vsscorpionfish

Specialized

9.9

A group of sea fish like scorpionfish that live in warm waters and can sting

is the general common name for the same fishes rather than the genus

Compounds

plumed scorpionfish

Specialized

9.9

A fish with feathery fins that hides on reefs and has stinging spines

How Venomous

stonefish

Australian

1 9.3

scorpionfish

1 9.1

lionfish

11 7.5

cod

36 1.0

Surface Forms

scorpionfish singular

scorpionfishes plural

Morphology

scorpionfish = scorpion + fish (transparent) = scorpion + fish

The compound denotes a fish characterized by scorpion-like venomous spines, a meaning readily inferable from 'scorpion' + 'fish'.

Etymology

Scorpionfish is made from scorpion and fish because this fish has sharp spines like a scorpion's 'sting'. So the name reminds you it is a fish with venomous spines.