Search Dictionary
Definition of moorish idol

moorish idol

Plural:Moorish idols
JUMP TO:

• noun

1

A striking, laterally compressed marine fish (Zanclus cornutus) native to tropical and subtropical reefs of the Indo-Pacific, easily recognized by its vivid vertical black, white, and yellow bands and an exceptionally long, trailing dorsal fin.

Example

"While snorkeling over the vibrant Hawaiian coral reef, the marine biology students spotted a solitary Moorish idol gracefully foraging for sponges."

Word Nuance & Usage

The Moorish idol is frequently confused with the visually similar pennant coralfish (or schooling bannerfish), but can be distinguished by its more prominent, tubular snout and the presence of a small, horn-like projection over the eyes in older individuals.

• Nearby Words

moorings
moorish
moorish gecko
moorish idol
moorish viper
moorland
moose

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Moorish idol. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/moorish-idol
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.