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Definition of kelp

kelp

/kɛlp/
kelp

Plural:kelps
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kelp Lexical Profile

kelp Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Large brown seaweeds (order Laminariales) that typically have a long, tough stalk with a broad frond, growing in dense underwater forests in cold, nutrient-rich coastal waters.

Example

"Sea otters often wrap themselves in kelp to keep from drifting away while they sleep in the ocean."


2

The calcined ashes of large brown seaweed, formerly widely used as a commercial source of iodine, potash, and sodium carbonate for the glass and soap industries.

Example

"In the nineteenth century, coastal communities in Scotland harvested and burned seaweed in kilns to produce kelp."

• Rhymes for kelp

Word Origin & Etymology

Late Middle English, originally denoting the calcined ashes of seaweed used in glass-making. Of unknown ultimate origin.

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Kelp. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/kelp
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