Definition

A type of fish that can inflate its body by taking in water or air, often found in the ocean and known for its spiny skin and sometimes toxic nature.

Example

The puffer fish is famous for its ability to puff up when threatened.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a puffer fish in an aquarium?

Yeah, they look so funny when they puff up!

I heard they can be poisonous, though.

That's true! It's best to admire them from a distance.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Puffer → The word 'puffer' originates from the verb 'puff', which is of imitative origin, meaning to blow or swell out. The suffix '-er' indicates a person or thing that performs the action. Thus, a 'puffer' is something that puffs or swells up, often referring to a type of fish that inflates itself as a defense mechanism.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'blows up' or 'swells out' ('puff') — that's why a 'puffer' refers to something that inflates, like a pufferfish.

Visually Confused Words