noun
grenadier
A deep-sea fish with a long, tapering tail.
The grenadier swims near the seafloor, its long tail trailing.
Etymology
The fish name transfers the military name grenadier to an animal. The exact basis of the comparison is uncertain here, so its long tail should not be presented as a proven reason for the name.
More examples
- Researchers examine the grenadier's long, tapering tail.
- Several grenadiers appear in footage from the deep sea.
- The fishing net brings up a grenadier from far below.
Forms
grenadier · grenadiers
Similar words
- rattail
- Another name for the same fish, emphasizing its tapering tail.