# tuna

/ˈtjunə/ (US) · /tjˈuːnɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tuna
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. the fish

noun · CEFR A2

a large, fast-swimming sea fish that lives in warm oceans.

For teachers: any of several species of large marine fish in the family Scombridae, known for their speed and migratory habits.

- The documentary showed a huge tuna swimming through the deep blue water.
- Commercial fishing for bluefin tuna is strictly regulated in many international waters to prevent the collapse of local populations.

Usage: The plural can be either 'tuna' or 'tunas', though 'tuna' is more common when referring to the fish as a group.

### 2. the food

noun · CEFR A2

the meat of the tuna fish, often sold in cans or served as steaks.

For teachers: the edible flesh of the tuna, widely consumed as a source of protein in various culinary traditions.

- I usually have a tuna sandwich for lunch because it is quick to make.
- The chef prepared a delicate tartare of fresh yellowfin tuna, seasoned lightly with citrus and sea salt.

Usage: Uncountable when referring to the meat as food.

### 3. the cactus

noun · CEFR C1 · American English

a type of cactus with sharp spines, or the sweet fruit that grows on it.

For teachers: the prickly pear cactus of the genus Opuntia, or its edible, fleshy fruit.

- Be careful not to touch the tuna plant, as it is covered in tiny needles.
- In many arid regions, the fruit of the tuna is harvested and processed into jams or refreshing beverages.

Usage: Commonly used in the Southwestern United States and Mexico.

### 4. mythology

noun · CEFR C2 · Literary

a god in some Pacific cultures who is the father of eels.

For teachers: a deity in Polynesian mythology, specifically associated with the origin of eels.

- The old story tells how the god Tuna was turned into the first eel.
- In Maori mythology, the death of Tuna led to the creation of the various species of eels found in the rivers.

## Examples

- I usually have a tuna sandwich for lunch.
- The chef prepares fresh tuna steaks with a light crust of black pepper and sesame seeds.
- Commercial fishing for bluefin tuna is strictly regulated to prevent the collapse of populations in the Mediterranean and Atlantic.

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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.