rainbow trout

noun

: a large stout-bodied salmonid fish (Oncorhynchus mykiss synonym Salmo gairdneri) of western North America that is related to the Pacific salmon and is typically greenish above and white on the belly with a pink, red, or lavender stripe along each side of the body and with profuse black dots compare steelhead

Illustration of rainbow trout

Illustration of rainbow trout

Examples of rainbow trout in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Benefits: Like other types of oily fish, rainbow trout are a good source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 29 May 2025 Both brown and rainbow trout can be found at depths of 15 to 20 feet and are especially active in late winter and early spring. Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 16 May 2025 The district has stocked more than 5,000 pounds of catchable-sized rainbow trout at the fishing lakes. Melinda Moore, Chicago Tribune, 4 Apr. 2025 Guests can order soups and salad, visit a cold seafood display, carving station or a breakfast station, make a selection from a mix of cheese and charcuterie or order from a lineup of specials: pork adobo, rainbow trout, a cheese tamale, or chicken enchiladas. Abby Hamblin, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rainbow trout

Word History

First Known Use

1880, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rainbow trout was in 1880

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Cite this Entry

“Rainbow trout.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rainbow%20trout. Accessed 8 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

rainbow trout

noun
: a large trout native to western North America that usually has red or pink stripes with black dots on its sides compare steelhead

More from Merriam-Webster on rainbow trout

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