smolt

[ smohlt ]

noun

1. a young, silvery salmon in the stage of its first migration to the sea.

smolt

/ sməʊlt /

noun

1. a young salmon at the stage when it migrates from fresh water to the sea

Word History and Origins

Origin of smolt¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English; perhaps akin to smelt ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of smolt¹

C14: Scottish, of uncertain origin; perhaps related to smelt ²

Example Sentences

A late sea-going smolt explains the anomaly of a spring salmon.

From Project Gutenberg

They are then called "smolt," and are as adult salmon in all respects save size.

From Project Gutenberg

Shortly after assuming the smolt dress, the young salmon takes its departure to the sea.

From Project Gutenberg

In about fifteen months it loses these marks and becomes quite silvery, being now known as a smolt.

From Project Gutenberg