What does SMOLT mean?

smolt

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A young salmon, especially one that has become adapted for living in salt water after having migrated from fresh water.

Pronunciations: US: /smoʊlt/, UK: /sməʊlt/

Origin and Usage: The word smolt originated in the early 19th century from the Scottish Gaelic word smoltadh, which means change of color. It is used to describe a young salmon that has migrated from fresh water to salt water and undergone physiological changes to adapt to its new environment. The term is commonly used in the fishing and aquaculture industries.

Synonyms: Juvenile salmon, parr, fingerling

Related Words: Trout, charr, grilse, alevin, kelts

Example Sentences:

• The hatchery released thousands of smolts into the river to help replenish the salmon population.
• After spending several years in fresh water, the smolt migrates downstream to the ocean.
• The smolts body undergoes physiological changes to adapt to the salt water environment.