Circumnatant

/ˌsɜːrkəmˈneɪtənt/ adjective

Definition

Swimming or moving around in a circular motion; able to swim around something.

Etymology

From Latin circum- (around) + natans (swimming, from natare meaning to swim). Describes creatures or objects capable of moving in circular swimming patterns.

Kelly Says

Fish in a circular tank sometimes exhibit circumnatant behavior, repeatedly swimming in loops—scientists study this because it can indicate stress or neurological problems. It's one of those precise biological terms that describes something you've probably observed in aquariums!

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