steelhead

noun

steel·​head ˈstēl-ˌhed How to pronounce steelhead (audio)
plural steelhead also steelheads
: an anadromous rainbow trout

called also steelhead trout

Examples of steelhead 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.
The venture will restore fish access to water and habitats for salmon and steelhead trout. Noël Fletcher, Forbes.com, 15 May 2025 The agencies have explained it as a way of expanding spawning habitat for salmon, steelhead, lamprey and sturgeon. Jake Goodrick, Sacbee.com, 28 Apr. 2025 Sorokin: The two fish that got the most attention are the steelhead trout and the tidewater gobies. Ari Daniel, Smithsonian Magazine, 1 May 2025 But anglers have argued that salmon and steelhead already utilize the water, and that a path around the dam would clear the way for striped bass to prey in what’s currently a sanctuary. Jake Goodrick, Sacbee.com, 28 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for steelhead

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1882, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of steelhead was circa 1882

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Cite this Entry

“Steelhead.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/steelhead. Accessed 3 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

steelhead

noun
steel·​head ˈstē(ə)l-ˌhed How to pronounce steelhead (audio)
plural steelhead also steelheads
: a rainbow trout that migrates to the sea to mature and returns to rivers to breed

called also steelhead trout

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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