Definition

A type of small to medium-sized fish that lives in shallow waters along the Pacific coast of North America, known for giving birth to live young instead of laying eggs.

Example

We saw a school of surfperch swimming near the shore during our beach trip.

Conversation

Have you ever tried catching surfperch at the beach?

No, I haven't, but I've heard they're fun to catch!

They're really popular around here, especially in the summer.

That sounds awesome! I should give it a go next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Surfperch → The word is formed from "surf" (from Old English *syrf*, meaning to ride on waves) and "perch" (from Old French *perche*, meaning a type of fish). The term "surfperch" refers to a type of fish that inhabits coastal waters and is often found near the surf zone.

Memory Tip

Think of riding on waves ('surf') and a type of fish ('perch') that lives in those waters — that's how surfperch describes a fish found in the surf.

Visually Confused Words