stingray: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low to MediumNeutral
Quick answer
What does “stingray” mean?
A flat, marine fish with a venomous spine on its tail, belonging to the family Dasyatidae.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A flat, marine fish with a venomous spine on its tail, belonging to the family Dasyatidae.
Also refers to a type of surveillance device used by law enforcement to intercept mobile phone signals.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning; both refer to the same animal or device.
Connotations
Generally negative due to potential danger, but neutral in scientific contexts.
Frequency
Similar frequency in both varieties; might be more common in coastal regions.
Grammar
How to Use “stingray” in a Sentence
stingray of [species]stingray with a barbstingray from [region]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “stingray” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The security services may stingray an area for surveillance purposes.
American English
- Law enforcement stingrayed the cell phones during the investigation.
adjective
British English
- The stingray-shaped drone was used for underwater exploration.
American English
- He suffered a stingray-like injury from the barb.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used; might appear in tourism or aquarium industries.
Academic
Common in marine biology and zoology texts.
Everyday
Used when discussing beach safety or wildlife encounters.
Technical
Specific in ichthyology and surveillance technology.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “stingray”
- Spelling as two words: 'sting ray'
- Confusing with 'manta ray', which is a different species.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Seek medical attention immediately and immerse the wound in hot water to neutralise the venom.
Most stingrays have venomous barbs, but not all species are equally dangerous to humans.
In some places, but it requires specialised care and large aquariums; not recommended for beginners.
Stingrays have venomous barbs and are generally smaller, while manta rays are larger, lack barbs, and are filter feeders.
A flat, marine fish with a venomous spine on its tail, belonging to the family Dasyatidae.
Stingray is usually neutral in register.
Stingray: in British English it is pronounced /ˈstɪŋreɪ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈstɪŋˌreɪ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'sting' for its venomous tail and 'ray' for its flat shape, like a ray of light but in water.
Conceptual Metaphor
A hidden danger or something that attacks stealthily, as stingrays often lie camouflaged on the ocean floor.
Practice
Quiz
What is a stingray?