alligator gar

noun

: a large freshwater gar (Lepisosteus spatula) of the central U.S. that attains a length of over 7 feet and a weight in excess of 150 pounds

also : any of certain related Cuban and Central American fishes that are all valueless as food or game fishes and considered destructive of aquatic life and waterfowls

Word History

Etymology

so called from its size

First Known Use

1820, in the meaning defined above

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!

Kids Definition

alligator gar

noun

: a large freshwater gar of the central U.S.