Search Dictionary
Definition of waspfish
waspfish
/ˈwɑːsp.fɪʃ/
wasp · fish
Plural:waspfishes
waspfish Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
11
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
Any of several small, highly venomous marine fishes of the family Tetrarogidae, primarily found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-West Pacific, characterized by their laterally compressed bodies, cryptic coloration, and potent stinging spines.
Example
"While exploring the shallow coastal reefs of Indonesia, the marine biologist was careful not to disturb the well-camouflaged waspfish resting on the sea floor."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for waspfishWord Origin & Etymology
A compound of 'wasp' and 'fish', named for the sharp, venomous dorsal spines that can deliver a painful sting comparable to that of a wasp.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.
180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Waspfish. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 16, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/waspfish