aquatic

UK: əˈkwætɪk | US: əˈkwɑːtɪk

Definition
  1. adj. relating to water; living or growing in or near water

  2. adj. involving or performed in water (e.g., aquatic sports)

Structure
aqua <water>tic <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "aquatic" derives from Latin aquaticus, which combines aqua (water) and the adjectival suffix -ticus. Aqua traces back to Proto-Indo-European h₂ekʷeh₂ (water), a root shared by words like "aquarium" and "aqueous." The suffix -tic (via Latin -ticus) forms adjectives indicating a relationship to the root. The term has consistently retained its water-related meaning since its adoption into English in the 15th century.

Examples
  1. The pond supports a diverse range of aquatic plants.

  2. Swimming and diving are popular aquatic activities.

  3. Scientists study aquatic ecosystems to monitor water health.

  4. The aquarium showcases exotic aquatic species.

  5. Her research focuses on aquatic insects in freshwater habitats.