boxfish

noun

: any of a number of small bright-colored fishes (family Ostraciontidae) of tropical seas that are related to the triggerfishes but have the body and head enclosed in a hard carapace of hexagonal bony plates

called also trunkfish

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now