piranha

word

Definition

A piranha is a small, sharp-toothed fish found in South American rivers, known for eating meat and sometimes attacking animals or humans.

Usage & Nuances

'Piranha' is always a noun, and the word usually refers to the South American species. Used literally for the fish, rarely as a metaphor. Plural is 'piranhas.' Often appears with words like 'Amazon,' 'rivers,' and 'dangerous.'

Example Sentences

Tourists love taking photos of wild piranhas during river tours.

natural

Despite their scary image, not all piranhas are dangerous to humans.

natural

A piranha has very sharp teeth.

basic

People are afraid to swim where piranhas live.

basic

The Amazon River is home to many piranhas.

basic

I never thought I’d see a real piranha up close until my trip to Brazil.

natural