# moray

/ˈmɔɹeɪ/ (US) · /mˈɔːɹeɪ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/moray
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a type of large, snake-like fish that lives in warm oceans. It has sharp teeth and often hides in holes in coral reefs.

For teachers: any of various tropical and subtropical eels of the family Muraenidae, typically characterized by a lack of pectoral fins and a powerful, tooth-filled jaw. Often found inhabiting crevices in coral reefs or rocky shorelines.

## Examples

- The moray hides in the rocks waiting for food.
- While scuba diving near the reef, we saw a large green moray peering out from a small cave.
- The moray possesses a unique set of pharyngeal jaws that it uses to pull prey from its mouth into its throat, a biological mechanism rarely seen in other vertebrates.

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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.