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Definition of velvetfish

velvetfish

/ˈvɛlvətˌfɪʃ/
vel · vet · fish
Plural:velvetfishes
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velvetfish Lexical Profile

• noun

1

Any of several small, bottom-dwelling marine fishes primarily of the family Aploactinidae, native to the coastal waters and coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific Ocean, characterized by a highly camouflaged appearance and a soft, velvety skin texture caused by modified scales.

Example

"While exploring the rocky reef off the coast of Western Australia, the marine biologist photographed a remarkably camouflaged velvetfish resting on the sea floor."

• Nearby Words

velvet bean
velvet gecko
velvet swamp snake
velvetfish
vendace
veneer
venezuela

Word Origin & Etymology

A compound of 'velvet' and 'fish', named for the highly modified, prickly scales that give the skin of these fishes a soft, velvety texture.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Velvetfish. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/velvetfish
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