Gilled

The adjective 'gilled' describes something that possesses or has gills, typically used to describe aquatic animals. Gills are respiratory organs that extract oxygen from water and release carbon dioxide. The term emphasizes the biological adaptation for underwater respiration, distinguishing creatures from those that breathe air using lungs or other mechanisms. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the act of breathing in a way that is reminiscent of how gills function. The term highlights the anatomy and function of breathing underwater, which sets apart certain animals from their terrestrial counterparts.

Gilled meaning with examples

• The diver marveled at the vibrant, gilled creatures swimming through the coral reef, their delicate gills filtering the ocean water.
• Scientists studied the fossil of a prehistoric fish, analyzing the intricate structure of its gilled skeleton to understand its evolutionary history.
• The aquarium housed several species of gilled salamanders, their feathery gills swaying gently as they absorbed oxygen from the water.
• As the fish quickly approached its prey, its gilled opening allowed for faster water flow to give them the best chance of survival.
• Although aquatic in nature, this gilled amphibian spends its larva phase in the water and transitions into a more terrestrial form with the capability of breathing air.