lobster

noun

lob·​ster ˈläb-stər 

often attributive

1

: any of a family (Nephropidae and especially Homarus americanus) of large edible marine decapod crustaceans that have stalked eyes, a pair of large claws, and a long abdomen and that include species from coasts on both sides of the North Atlantic and from the Cape of Good Hope

2

: spiny lobster

lobsterlike

ˈläb-stər-ˌlīk 

adjective

Illustration of lobster

• lobster 1

Examples of lobster in a Sentence

I had lobster for dinner.

Recent Examples on the Web

Guests can continue this ritual with a private afternoon tea for two served by the hotel’s butler service, including bites like lobster salad sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and sweets such as lemon tartelettes and assorted French macarons. —Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 9 Feb. 2025

On the wall is a mural by the artist Michael McGregor, depicting a summer lobster party. —Tori Latham, Robb Report, 4 Feb. 2025

Add the lobster mixture and toss until it is heated through, about 1 minute. —Kate Bradshaw, The Mercury News, 27 Jan. 2025

Enterprising captains — including, Pujol confesses, his own grandfather, who owned a 38-foot lobster boat — would pick up migrants in Cuba and deliver them to waiting family members parked at the traffic circle. —Nicolas Rivero, Miami Herald, 26 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English loppestre, from loppe spider

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing lobster

• hanging lobster claw
• lobster claw
• lobster pot
• lobster shift
• lobster thermidor
• lobster trap
• Norway lobster
• rock lobster
• spiny lobster

Kids Definition

lobster

noun

lob·​ster ˈläb-stər 

: any of several large edible marine crustaceans with stalked eyes, a pair of large claws, and a long abdomen

also : spiny lobster