Seahorse

/ˈsiːhɔːrs/ noun

Definition

A seahorse is a small fish with a head shaped like a horse and a curled tail, often found in shallow, warm waters.

Etymology

Formed in English from “sea” and “horse” because its head looks like a tiny horse’s head. The scientific name “Hippocampus” also comes from Greek for “horse” (hippo) and “sea monster” (kampos).

Kelly Says

In seahorses, it’s the males that get pregnant and carry the babies, flipping the usual pattern in the animal world. They show how even basic ideas like “which sex gives birth” can be more flexible than we assume.

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