Definition

A type of fish that can shoot water from its mouth to knock insects off branches and into the water to eat them.

Example

The archerfish is known for its unique ability to shoot water at insects above the water's surface.

Conversation

Have you ever seen an archerfish in action?

No, I haven't! What do they do?

They actually spit water to knock insects off branches into the water.

That sounds incredible! I’d love to see that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Archerfish is formed from "archer" (from Old French *archier*, meaning bowman) and "fish" (from Old English *fisc*, meaning a creature that swims). The word describes a type of fish known for its ability to shoot jets of water to catch prey, reminiscent of an archer shooting arrows.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'bowman' ('archer') who uses a 'fish' to catch prey — this helps you remember that an archerfish is a fish that shoots water like an archer shoots arrows.

Visually Confused Words