Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

gill

Noun

/ɡɪl/

Definition

A gill is a respiratory organ found in many aquatic animals, such as fish, which enables them to extract oxygen from water.

Examples

The fish swam gracefully, its gills opening and closing rhythmically.
She learned how to clean the gills of the fish before cooking it.
In some species, the gills can change color when the fish is excited or stressed.

Meaning

Gill refers to the fish’s breathing apparatus, consisting typically of a series of thin membranes that allow the absorption of oxygen from water and the release of carbon dioxide.