# piranha

/pɪˈɹænhə/ (US) · /pəɹˈɑːnɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/piranha
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

a small, fast fish with sharp teeth that lives in rivers in South America. People often think they are very dangerous, but they usually only eat small fish and insects.

For teachers: a small, predatory freshwater fish of the family Serrasalmidae, native to South America. Characterised by a streamlined body and sharp, triangular teeth.

## Examples

- The piranha swims quickly through the river.
- While often portrayed as a dangerous predator, the piranha primarily feeds on small fish and plant matter in the Amazon.
- The presence of the piranha in the local ecosystem helps control the population of smaller fish, maintaining a delicate balance within the river's food chain.

---

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.