filter feeder

noun

: an animal (such as a clam or baleen whale) that obtains its food by filtering organic matter or minute organisms from a current of water that passes through some part of its system

Examples of filter feeder 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.
While natural features can span tens of kilometers, the relatively small platforms seem to provide a comparable level of attraction for these massive filter feeders. Melissa Cristina Marquez, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025 The team realized that this is how mobula rays are such successful filter feeders. Elizabeth Rayne, Ars Technica, 31 Dec. 2024 Another one of Earth’s earliest filter feeders, these creatures had fine bristles to comb out microorganisms from seawater, showcasing an efficient adaptation for survival in ancient oceans. Scott Travers, Forbes, 12 Dec. 2024 Sponges are the longest-living invertebrates Sponges aren’t the most dynamic animals; rooted to a spot on the seafloor, these filter feeders may appear more similar to plants than animals. Brian Handwerk, Smithsonian Magazine, 11 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for filter feeder 

Word History

First Known Use

1928, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of filter feeder was in 1928

Dictionary Entries Near filter feeder

Cite this Entry

“Filter feeder.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/filter%20feeder. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

filter feeder

noun
: an animal (as a clam or baleen whale) that obtains its food by filtering food particles or tiny living things from water
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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