plankton
What is another word for plankton? Here is its meaning, with related words and examples.
Noun — Tiny, often microscopic organisms that drift passively in water rather than swimming against currents.
We haven't recorded synonyms for plankton yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.
How to use plankton
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
plankton bloom
feed on plankton
marine plankton
Etymology
Coined in German from Greek planktos, "drifting" — the same root idea as "planet," things that wander or drift.
Full origin of plankton →Frequently asked questions
What does “plankton” mean?
The word “plankton” means tiny, often microscopic organisms that drift passively in water rather than swimming against currents. In plain terms, microscopic plants and animals that float in oceans and lakes, forming the base of the aquatic food chain.
How do you pronounce “plankton”?
“Plankton” is pronounced PLANG-tuhn (/ˈplæŋ(k).tən/ in IPA).
How do you use “plankton” in a sentence?
Here is “plankton” used in a sentence: “Whales filter huge amounts of plankton from seawater as they feed.”
What part of speech is “plankton”?
“Plankton” is a noun.
Where does the word “plankton” come from?
The word “plankton” comes from German. Coined in German from Greek planktos, "drifting" — the same root idea as "planet," things that wander or drift.
