lionfish

[ lahy-uhn-fish ]

noun

, plural li·on·fish·es, (especially collectively) li·on·fish.

1. a brightly striped scorpionfish of the genus Pterois, especially P. volitans, of the Indo-Pacific region, having long, flamboyant, venomous spiny fins.
2. an Atlantic scorpionfish, Scorpaena grandicornis.

lionfish

/ ˈlaɪənˌfɪʃ /

noun

1. any of various scorpion fishes of the tropical Pacific genus Pterois, having a striped body and elongated spiny fins

Word History and Origins

Origin of lionfish¹

First recorded in 1905–10; lion + fish

Example Sentences

With their distinctive spiny ruffs and zebra stripes, lionfish are among the more flamboyant of coral reef fish species.

From National Geographic

Although their exteriors are colorful and vibrant, lionfish meat is white, flaky and subtle in flavor — comparable to tilapia but slightly sweeter and sturdier.

From Salon

"But we could have pressure on lionfish in certain areas where it can make an ecological difference."

From Salon

Burmese pythons and lionfish are killing off native species.

From Seattle Times

Its exhibit offerings will feature sea life including garden eels, lionfish and scorpionfish, among other sea creatures situated in a large marine ecosystem.

From Seattle Times