Barnacled

/ˈbɑrnəkəld/ adjective

Definition

Covered with barnacles, which are small hard-shelled sea creatures that attach to ships and rocks.

Etymology

From barnacle (Middle English bernacle, from Old French bernacle), a crustacean that attaches to surfaces, plus the suffix -ed meaning 'covered with' or 'having.'

Kelly Says

Barnacles are so good at sticking that ships lose speed when covered with them—medieval sailors didn't realize these crusty creatures were alive and thought they were just rocky growths!

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