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
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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
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