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Definition of sculpin

sculpin

/ˈskʌl.pɪn/
scul · pin
Plural:sculpins
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sculpin Lexical Profile

sculpin Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Any of numerous small, bottom-dwelling fishes of the family Cottidae, typically characterized by a large, heavily armored or spiny head, expansive pectoral fins, and a scaleless, tapering body. They are found in both freshwater streams and coastal marine environments across the Northern Hemisphere.

Example

"While searching for trout, the angler instead hooked a mottled sculpin hiding among the rocks in the shallow riverbed."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for sculpin

• Nearby Words

sculler
scullery
sculling
sculpin
sculpt
sculptor
sculptress

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in American English in the mid-17th century. The origin is uncertain, but it may be derived from an English dialect word meaning 'a mean or worthless person', possibly reflecting the fish's unappetizing appearance and tendency to steal bait.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sculpin. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sculpin
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