Definition

Describing organisms that float in the water, especially in the open sea, rather than living on the bottom of the ocean.

Example

The planktonic creatures are essential for the marine food web.

Conversation

Did you know that some species are planktonic and float in the ocean?

Yeah, I heard about that! It's interesting how they survive out there.

Right? It’s amazing how they adapt to live in open water.

Definitely! They play such a crucial role in the marine ecosystem.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Planktonic → It is formed from "plankton" (from Greek "planktos", meaning wandering or drifting) and the suffix "-ic" (meaning pertaining to). The word "planktonic" refers to organisms that are related to or characteristic of plankton, which are small and often microscopic organisms that drift in water.

Memory Tip

Think of 'plankton' as tiny organisms that are 'wandering' ('planktos') in the water, and '-ic' means related to. This helps you remember that 'planktonic' describes things that are related to these drifting organisms.

Visually Confused Words