Search Dictionary
Definition of zooplankton

zooplankton

/ˌzoʊ.əˈplæŋk.tən/
zoo · plank · ton
Plural:zooplankton
•
Adjective:zooplanktonic
JUMP TO:

zooplankton Lexical Profile

zooplankton Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Plankton consisting of small, mostly microscopic animals (such as copepods, krill, and rotifers) and the immature larval stages of larger aquatic organisms that drift in oceans, seas, and bodies of fresh water, serving as a vital link in aquatic food webs.

Example

"Baleen whales filter massive quantities of water to feed on krill and other nutrient-rich zooplankton."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for zooplankton
Antonyms
View all antonyms for zooplankton

• Rhymes for zooplankton

• Nearby Words

zong pit viper
zonguldak
zonkey
zooplankton
zorilla
zorse
zouerat

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 19th century by combining the Ancient Greek prefix 'zoo-' (from 'zōion', meaning animal) with 'plankton' (derived from 'planktós', meaning wandering or drifting).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Zooplankton. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 17, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/zooplankton
Wordmom is your complete guide to the English language. Whether you're looking up a definition, searching for the perfect synonym, or unscrambling letters for a word game, our comprehensive suite of tools is designed to help you find the right word, every time.
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®, Words With Friends®, Wordle®, and related game titles or tournament codes are registered trademarks of their respective owners (including Hasbro, Mattel, Zynga, The New York Times, NASPA, and WESPA). Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes, not affiliated with, sponsored, or endorsed by these entities. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use for compatibility.