rainbow trout

noun

: a large stout-bodied salmonid fish (Oncorhynchus mykiss synonym Salmo gairdneri) of western North America that is related to the Pacific salmon and is typically greenish above and white on the belly with a pink, red, or lavender stripe along each side of the body and with profuse black dots compare steelhead

Illustration of rainbow trout

Illustration of rainbow trout

Examples of rainbow trout 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 lake is stocked with rainbow trout twice a month in the winter and is known for its largemouth bass fishing. — Staff Reports, AZCentral.com, 5 May 2026 In reality, a steelhead is just a rainbow trout that decides to go to the ocean, and then returns to its natal river to spawn. — Dac Collins, Outdoor Life, 18 June 2026 Steelhead, which are also known as inland stream rainbow trout, are among Michigan's most popular sport fish. — Paula Wethington, CBS News, 15 May 2026 Salmon, rainbow trout, and tuna offer heart-protective nutrients with a milder flavor. — Lindsey Desoto, Health, 30 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rainbow trout

Word History

First Known Use

1880, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rainbow trout was in 1880

Rhymes for rainbow trout

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Browse Nearby Words

rainbow snake
rainbow trout
rainbowweed
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Cite this Entry

“Rainbow trout.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rainbow%20trout. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

rainbow trout

noun
: a large trout native to western North America that usually has red or pink stripes with black dots on its sides compare steelhead

More from Merriam-Webster on rainbow trout

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about rainbow trout

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