Dictionary

eel

noun \ˈēl\

: a long fish that looks like a snake and has smooth slippery skin

Full Definition of EEL

1
a :  any of numerous voracious elongate snakelike bony fishes (order Anguilliformes) that have a smooth slimy skin, lack pelvic fins, and have the median fins confluent around the tail — compare american eel
b :  any of numerous other elongate fishes (as of the order Synbranchiformes)
2
:  any of various nematodes (as the vinegar eel)
eel·like \ˈēl-ˌlīk\ adjective
eely \ˈē-lē\ adjective
ADVERTISEMENT

Illustration of EEL

Origin of EEL

Middle English ele, from Old English ǣl; akin to Old High German āl eel
First Known Use: before 12th century
EEL Defined for Kids

eel

noun \ˈēl\

Definition of EEL for Kids

:  a long fish that looks like a snake and has smooth slimy skin
ADVERTISEMENT
How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.
Test your vocab with our fun, fast game
Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears