teleost
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈtɛliˌɒst/
KK: /ˈtɛliˌɔst/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a large group of fish that have bony skeletons, which includes most of the common fish species.
Example
The teleost fish are known for their diverse shapes and sizes.
Conversation
Did you know that most fish we see in aquariums are actually teleost species?
Really? I always thought they were just regular fish.
Yeah, they have bony skeletons, which makes them different from sharks.
That's interesting! I guess I need to learn more about fish.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
bony
ossified
hardy
Antonyms
cartilaginous
soft
fragile
noun
Definition
A type of fish that belongs to a large group known for having a bony skeleton and a swim bladder, which helps them maintain buoyancy in water.
Example
The teleosts are the most diverse group of fish in the ocean.
Conversation
Did you know that a teleost is a type of fish?
Really? I had no idea there were different categories of fish like that.
Yeah, most of the fish we eat are actually teleosts.
Root Explanation
Teleost is formed from "tele-" (from Greek "tēle", meaning distant or far) and "ost" (from Greek "osteon", meaning bone). The word refers to a group of bony fish that are characterized by their advanced skeletal structure, which is adapted for living in various aquatic environments.
Memory Tip
Think of 'distant' ('tele-') and 'bone' ('osteon') to remember that 'teleost' refers to a type of fish with a bony structure.
Visually Confused Words
teest