Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Mollusk Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🐚
Add to dictionary

mollusk

[ˈmɒləsk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

sea creature

A mollusk is a soft-bodied invertebrate animal that usually has a hard shell. Mollusks include snails, clams, squid, and octopuses. They are found in marine and freshwater environments.

Synonyms

seashell, shellfish.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
mollusk

Typically used in scientific or educational contexts to refer to a soft-bodied invertebrate animal, often having a shell, such as snails, clams, and squid.

  • Marine biologists study different kinds of mollusks to learn about ocean ecosystems
  • The garden snail is a common type of mollusk
shellfish

Commonly used in culinary contexts to refer to edible marine animals with shells, such as crabs, lobsters, and clams. It can sometimes carry a cautionary note for people with allergies.

  • Many people enjoy seafood dishes that include different kinds of shellfish
  • Be careful if you're allergic to shellfish; it can cause severe reactions
seashell

Often used in everyday language to refer to the hard, outer covering of certain marine animals that are often found washed up on beaches.

  • Children love collecting seashells during their beach vacations
  • The artist created a beautiful necklace out of various seashells

Examples of usage

  • The beach was covered with colorful mollusk shells.
  • She collected various types of mollusks during her scuba diving trip.
Context #2 | Noun

biology

In biology, a mollusk is a member of the phylum Mollusca, which includes gastropods, bivalves, and cephalopods. Mollusks are characterized by their soft bodies and usually a hard shell.

Synonyms

mollusc.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
mollusk

Used primarily in American English when referring to a soft-bodied invertebrate that often has a shell.

  • The ocean is home to many fascinating mollusks, like octopuses and snails.
  • She studied the unique features of mollusks in her marine biology class.
mollusc

Commonly used in British English for the same group of animals as 'mollusk'.

  • The child eagerly examined the molluscs they found in the rock pool.
  • Molluscs such as clams and oysters are considered delicacies in many cultures.

Examples of usage

  • The professor explained the classification of mollusks to the students.
  • The museum had a beautiful exhibit featuring various mollusk specimens.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biodiversity

  • Mollusks are incredibly diverse, with over 85,000 species identified, ranging from tiny snails to giant squid.
  • They are divided into several classes, including Gastropoda (snails and slugs), Bivalvia (clams and oysters), and Cephalopoda (squids and octopuses).
  • Mollusks can be found in a variety of habitats, from deep ocean floors to high mountain ranges.

Culinary Importance

  • Many types of mollusks, like clams, mussels, and scallops, are enjoyed as seafood delicacies around the world.
  • Some cultures have historical traditions centered around harvesting and cooking mollusks, showcasing their importance in local cuisines.
  • They are rich in nutrients like protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making them a healthy food choice.

Ecological Role

  • Mollusks play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems, serving as both prey and contributors to nutrient cycling.
  • Some species, like certain bivalves, help filter and clean water, improving the ecosystem's health.
  • Their shells often become critical habitats for other marine life once they die.

Cultural Significance

  • Mollusks have been symbols in various cultures, representing adaptability due to their diverse forms and habitats.
  • In literature, they are often seen as metaphors for transformation, as in the case of the butterfly's metamorphosis, linking them to themes of change and growth.
  • Art from different cultures has frequently depicted mollusks, showcasing their beauty and variety.

Origin of 'mollusk'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'mollusk' comes from the Latin 'molluscus', meaning 'soft'.
  • In ancient times, these creatures were often referred to using various terms in different languages that highlighted their soft bodies.
  • The classification of mollusks has evolved significantly since its early uses in the scientific community.

The word 'mollusk' originated from the French word 'mollusque' and the Latin word 'molluscus', both meaning soft. The term was first used in the 18th century to describe soft-bodied marine animals with shells. Mollusks have been an important part of human diet and culture for centuries, with various species being consumed as food and used in art and jewelry.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,091 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.