IPA: //prɔːn//
KK: /prɔn/
A type of shellfish that is similar to shrimp, often found in warm waters and commonly used in cooking.
We went to the beach to catch some prawns for dinner.
A type of large shellfish that is similar to a shrimp and is often eaten as food.
We ordered a delicious prawn cocktail for starters.
The word 'prawn' originates from Middle English 'praun', which is derived from Old French 'proigne', meaning a type of shrimp or small crustacean. It refers specifically to a large shrimp-like marine creature.
Think of the Old French word 'proigne' for a type of shrimp, which helps you remember that 'prawn' refers to this large crustacean.