animal electricity

noun

: electricity generated in the bodies of animals (as through friction)
specifically : electricity generated by specially adapted organs of some fishes (as the electric eel) and apparently used chiefly in attack or defense

Word History

First Known Use

1765, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of animal electricity was in 1765

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Dictionary Entries Near animal electricity

animal dance

animal electricity

animal faith

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Cite this Entry

“Animal electricity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/animal%20electricity. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

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