Crayfish Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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crayfish
[หkreษชหfษชส ]
Definitions
seafood dish
A small freshwater decapod crustacean that resembles a small lobster and is typically used as an ingredient in seafood dishes.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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crayfish |
This term is used primarily in Europe, including the UK and Australia, to refer to the freshwater crustaceans similar to small lobsters.
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crawfish |
This term is commonly used in the southern United States, particularly in Louisiana, where these crustaceans are a popular part of the cuisine.
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crawdad |
This term is often used in the central and southern United States. It's a more informal and regional way to refer to these crustaceans.
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Examples of usage
- Would you like to try the crayfish pasta?
- The restaurant's specialty is the spicy crayfish stir-fry.
zoology
A small freshwater crustacean with a laterally compressed body, large pincers, and a pair of large, stalked eyes.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
crayfish |
Used widely in general contexts, including scientific and common everyday usage, to refer to freshwater crustaceans similar to small lobsters.
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crawfish |
Commonly used in the Southern United States, particularly in Louisiana, where they are a popular part of the cuisine. This term is often associated with cultural and culinary contexts.
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crawdad |
Commonly used in certain regions of the United States, particularly in the South and Midwest, to refer to freshwater crustaceans. It has a more colloquial feel compared to 'crayfish'.
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Examples of usage
- The crayfish burrowed into the mud to hide from predators.
- Students observed the crayfish's behavior in the laboratory.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Culinary Uses
- Crayfish are popular in cuisines around the world, especially in Cajun and Creole dishes from Louisiana.
- In France, they are called 'รฉcrevisses' and are often served in gourmet dishes, showcasing their culinary versatility.
Ecology
- Crayfish play a crucial role in freshwater ecosystems, helping to aerate the sediment and recycle nutrients.
- They are a food source for many animals, including fish, birds, and even some mammals, highlighting their importance in the food chain.
Cultural References
- In folklore, crayfish are often referenced in local narratives, where they symbolize resourcefulness due to their ability to thrive in various environments.
- The term 'crayfish boil' has become a cultural event in some regions, bringing communities together to celebrate food and camaraderie.
Biology
- Crayfish are crustaceans belonging to the order Decapoda, which means they have ten limbs.
- These creatures can regenerate their claws if they lose one, an interesting adaptation that aids their survival.
Origin of 'crayfish'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'crayfish' comes from the Middle English word 'crevishe', which itself evolved from the Old French 'crevice'.
- In some regions, they are also called 'crawfish' or 'crawdads', showing the diversity of names across cultures.
The word 'crayfish' originated in the early 14th century, derived from the Old French word 'crevice', which means 'crayfish'. It is believed that the term 'crayfish' may have been influenced by the Middle Low German word 'krebs', meaning 'crab'. Crayfish have been enjoyed as a food source for centuries, with various culinary traditions incorporating these freshwater crustaceans into dishes.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #21,445, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
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- 21442 midwifery
- 21443 deconstruction
- 21444 applicator
- 21445 crayfish
- 21446 transcribing
- 21447 reappearance
- 21448 redoubled
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