# crayfish

/ˈkɹeɪfɪʃ/ (US) · /kɹˈeɪfɪʃ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/crayfish
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

a small, freshwater crustacean that looks like a tiny lobster. You often see them in rivers or lakes, and some people eat them as food.

For teachers: a small freshwater crustacean of the family Cambaridae, resembling a lobster. Often used in culinary contexts to refer to the edible species of the genus Procambarus.

## Examples

- The crayfish hid under the rocks in the river.
- We spent the afternoon catching crayfish in the local stream and then cooked them for dinner.
- Ecologists are concerned that the introduction of invasive crayfish species is disrupting the delicate balance of the native aquatic ecosystem by outcompeting local fish for resources.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.