eelgrass

noun

eel·​grass ˈēl-ˌgras 

1

: a submerged long-leaved monocotyledonous marine plant (Zostera marina) that is found especially in coastal temperate waters and whose dried stems and leaves are used especially as packing material in woven goods

2

: tape grass

Examples of eelgrass in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Nutrient pollution and human development had set off algae blooms that choked out any other plants in the water—including the eelgrass that manatees rely on. —Carlyn Kranking, Smithsonian Magazine, 6 Sep. 2024

Aquatic vegetation like eelgrass, hydrilla and duckweed are crucial to the ecology of a spring. —Kathryn Varn, Axios, 2 Aug. 2024

In the bay, the species most at risk are eelgrass, a type of plant that many ocean species use as a habitat, and the fish, birds and green sea turtles that use that eelgrass as a source of food and shelter. —Kerry Breen, CBS News, 16 May 2024

In addition to its role as a habitat and nursery, eelgrass is a natural water filter that helps maintain good air and water quality. —Kerry Breen, CBS News, 16 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1790, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

eelgrass

noun

eel·​grass ˈē(ə)l-ˌgras 

: a saltwater plant that is a monocotyledon and has long ribbonlike leaves