Definition

Noun: A transparent container, typically made of glass or acrylic, filled with water for the purpose of keeping live fish, aquatic plants, and other underwater animals, often for display, study, or as pets.

Usage

A "fish tank" is a permanent or semi-permanent aquatic habitat maintained in a controlled environment. It is commonly found in homes, offices, schools, and public aquariums. The term emphasizes the container itself and its function.

Examples

• The children were fascinated by the colorful fish in the large fish tank at the dentist's office.
• She spent the afternoon cleaning her fish tank and changing the water.
• For his science project, he set up a small fish tank to observe the behavior of freshwater snails.

Advanced Usage

• "To stock a fish tank": This phrase refers to the process of selecting and introducing fish and other organisms into the aquarium.
  • It's important to research compatibility before you stock a new fish tank.
• The term can be used metaphorically to describe a confined or transparent environment where people are observed.
  • The celebrity felt like she was living in a fish tank, with paparazzi watching her every move.

Variants and Related Words

• Aquarium (noun): This is a more formal or technical synonym for "fish tank." It can also refer to a large public building housing many such tanks.
• Tank (noun): In this specific context, "tank" can be used informally as a shortened form of "fish tank."
• Fishbowl (noun): Specifically refers to a small, usually round, fish tank. It can also be used in the same metaphorical sense as "fish tank."

Synonyms

• Aquarium
• Marine tank (specifically for saltwater organisms)
• Freshwater tank (specifically for freshwater organisms)
• Vivarium (a broader term for an enclosure for keeping animals; an aquarium is a type of vivarium for aquatic life)

Related Phrases

• Set up a fish tank: To assemble and prepare a new aquarium for use.
  • It took a whole weekend to properly set up the new fish tank.
• Maintain a fish tank: To perform the ongoing care required, such as feeding, cleaning, and monitoring water quality.
  • Maintaining a saltwater fish tank requires more expertise than a freshwater one.

Noun

1. a tank or pool or bowl filled with water for keeping live fish and underwater animals