aquarium

noun

aquar·​i·​um ə-ˈkwer-ē-əm How to pronounce aquarium (audio)
plural aquariums or aquaria ə-ˈkwer-ē-ə How to pronounce aquarium (audio)
1
: a container (such as a glass tank) or an artificial pond in which living aquatic animals or plants are kept
2
: an establishment where aquatic organisms are kept and exhibited

Examples of aquarium in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Now, Clifford is working with aquariums and researchers who might be willing to take some of the surviving young octopuses. Will Sullivan, Smithsonian Magazine, 16 Apr. 2024 From there, a wood bridge flows into a soaring great room highlighted by expansive picture windows, a floor-to-ceiling fireplace, an 8,700-gallon freshwater aquarium and 85-inch retractable TV. Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 15 Apr. 2024 Each level includes free regular admission; free parking; free or discounted admission at select zoos and aquariums across the country; attraction coupons; discounts at the gift shop; priority registration and discounts for camps, classes and special events; and invitations to members-only events. Journal Sentinel, 12 Apr. 2024 But that is not the case, and the aquarium is now suggesting parthenogenesis as the reason for her pregnancy, or a form of asexual reproduction. Emily Deletter, USA TODAY, 12 Apr. 2024 The fin whale underwent a necropsy on Feb. 13 and results were pending at the time of the aquarium’s post. Katie Hill, Outdoor Life, 21 Feb. 2024 The conservancy last year secured $10 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funding dedicated to a full revamping of the aquarium's HVAC system. Keith Matheny, Detroit Free Press, 17 Feb. 2024 In April 2023, Princess Eugenie shared a picture of her son August, now 3, having fun with cousin Sienna at an aquarium. Janine Henni, Peoplemag, 8 Apr. 2024 The aquarium is also expected to provide approximately $28 million annually in economic benefits, according to a spokesperson. Michael Moore Jr., Miami Herald, 8 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'aquarium.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

probably alteration of aquatic vivarium

First Known Use

circa 1847, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of aquarium was circa 1847

Dictionary Entries Near aquarium

Cite this Entry

“Aquarium.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aquarium. Accessed 24 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

aquarium

noun
aquar·​i·​um ə-ˈkwar-ē-əm How to pronounce aquarium (audio)
-ˈkwer-
plural aquariums or aquaria
-ē-ə
: a container (as a glass tank) in which living water animals or plants are kept
also : an establishment where collections of such animals or plants are kept and shown
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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