B2 adjective Neutral

aquarium

/əˈkweəriəm/

Relating to or used in a tank, bowl, or glass building where fish and other water creatures and plants are kept. It typically describes equipment, species, or activities specifically designed for these controlled aquatic environments.

Examples

3 of 5
1

We need to buy some high-quality aquarium salt for the new marine tank.

We need to buy some high-quality aquarium salt for the new marine tank.

2

The museum features an extensive collection of rare aquarium specimens from the Pacific.

The museum features an extensive collection of rare aquarium specimens from the Pacific.

3

Check out this aquarium pump I found; it's super quiet.

Check out this aquarium pump I found; it's super quiet.

Word Family

Noun
aquarium
Adverb
aquatically
Adjective
aquarium
Related
aquarist
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Memory Tip

Break it down: 'Aqua' means water and 'rium' means a place for. Think of it as 'water-place' equipment.

Quick Quiz

The local pet store sells a wide variety of tropical _____ fish and supplies.

Correct!

The correct answer is: aquarium

Examples

1

We need to buy some high-quality aquarium salt for the new marine tank.

everyday

We need to buy some high-quality aquarium salt for the new marine tank.

2

The museum features an extensive collection of rare aquarium specimens from the Pacific.

formal

The museum features an extensive collection of rare aquarium specimens from the Pacific.

3

Check out this aquarium pump I found; it's super quiet.

informal

Check out this aquarium pump I found; it's super quiet.

4

Research indicates that certain aquarium additives may affect the microbial balance of the water.

academic

Research indicates that certain aquarium additives may affect the microbial balance of the water.

5

Our firm provides bespoke aquarium design services for corporate lobbies and executive offices.

business

Our firm provides bespoke aquarium design services for corporate lobbies and executive offices.

Word Family

Noun
aquarium
Adverb
aquatically
Adjective
aquarium
Related
aquarist

Common Collocations

aquarium fish aquarium fish
aquarium maintenance aquarium maintenance
aquarium filter aquarium filter
aquarium lighting aquarium lighting
aquarium gravel aquarium gravel

Common Phrases

aquarium hobbyist

aquarium hobbyist

public aquarium

public aquarium

aquarium trade

aquarium trade

Often Confused With

aquarium vs aquatic

Aquatic is a general term for anything living in water, while aquarium specifically refers to items or animals within an artificial tank environment.

aquarium vs terrarium

A terrarium is used for land animals or plants, whereas an aquarium is strictly for water-based life.

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Usage Notes

When used as an adjective, 'aquarium' is an attributive noun. It is placed before other nouns to specify that the object belongs to or is used for the fish-keeping hobby.

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes use 'aquatic' when they mean 'aquarium' (e.g., saying 'aquatic pump' instead of 'aquarium pump'). 'Aquatic' refers to the nature of the thing, whereas 'aquarium' refers to the specific equipment or location.

💡

Memory Tip

Break it down: 'Aqua' means water and 'rium' means a place for. Think of it as 'water-place' equipment.

📖

Word Origin

Derived from the Latin word 'aquarium', meaning a watering place for cattle, from 'aqua' (water).

Grammar Patterns

Used as an attributive adjective (modifier) before a noun. No comparative or superlative forms (e.g., you cannot say 'more aquarium'). Typically used in the singular form even when modifying plural nouns.
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Cultural Context

The aquarium hobby is a massive global industry and is often associated with relaxation, feng shui, and indoor interior design.

Quick Quiz

The local pet store sells a wide variety of tropical _____ fish and supplies.

Correct!

The correct answer is: aquarium

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