piranha

/pɪˈɹæn(j)ə/

UK: /pɪˈɹɑːn(j)ə/

piranha

English Noun Top 24,759

Definition

Any of certain freshwater fish of the subfamily Serrasalminae, native to South America; they are characterised by razor-sharp teeth and a reputation of being ferocious predators (despite most species being omnivorous).

Etymology

First attested in 1869. The term entered English either via Portuguese piranha or Spanish piraña, from Old Tupi pirãîa.