Search Dictionary
Definition of wolf eel
wolf eel
Plural:wolf eels
wolf eel Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
9
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
North American A large, elongated marine fish (Anarrhichthys ocellatus) native to the rocky coastal waters of the North Pacific, characterized by its powerful jaws and strong teeth adapted for crushing hard-shelled prey like crabs and sea urchins.
Example
"During their dive off the coast of British Columbia, the scuba divers were thrilled to spot a massive wolf eel peering out from its rocky den."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for wolf eelWord Nuance & Usage
Despite its common name and elongated appearance, the wolf eel is not a true eel, but rather a species of wolffish.
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Named for its powerful, canine-like teeth that resemble those of a wolf, combined with its long, snake-like body that mimics the shape of an eel.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Wolf eel. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/wolf eel