elasmobranch
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ɪˈlæzməˌbræŋk/
KK: /ɪˈlæzməˌbræŋk/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a group of fish that includes sharks and rays, characterized by a skeleton made of cartilage instead of bone.
Example
The elasmobranch species are known for their unique adaptations to marine environments.
Conversation
Did you know that sharks are classified as elasmobranch creatures?
Really? I always thought they were just big fish.
Nope, they actually belong to a different group called Chondrichthyes, which includes rays too.
That's fascinating! I love learning about marine biology.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
cartilaginous
chondrichthyan
sharklike
Antonyms
bony
ossified
hard
noun
Definition
A type of fish that has a skeleton made of cartilage instead of bone, including species like sharks and rays.
Example
Elasmobranchs are known for their unique body structure and are often found in oceans around the world.
Conversation
Did you know that an elasmobranch is a type of fish with a cartilaginous skeleton?
Really? I had no idea what that meant until now!
Yeah, it includes sharks and rays, which are pretty fascinating.
Root Explanation
Elasmobranch is formed from 'elasmo-' (from Greek 'elasma', meaning plate or flat) and 'branch' (from Greek 'branchia', meaning gills). The word refers to a group of fish characterized by their flat bodies and gills, such as sharks and rays.
Memory Tip
Think of 'flat plates' ('elasmo-') and 'gills' ('branch') to remember that elasmobranchs are fish with flat bodies and gills.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.