rainbow trout

noun

: a large stout-bodied salmonid fish (Oncorhynchus mykiss synonym Salmo gairdneri) of western North America that is related to the Pacific salmon and is typically greenish above and white on the belly with a pink, red, or lavender stripe along each side of the body and with profuse black dots compare steelhead

Illustration of rainbow trout

Examples of rainbow trout in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Fishing is also popular, with rainbow trout a common catch; however, a permit is required. —Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 22 Apr. 2026

In addition to its vitamin D benefits, rainbow trout is also an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals like selenium and potassium. —Kelly Burch, Verywell Health, 20 Apr. 2026

Just take the rainbow trout, a favorite food of the harbor seal. —Ari Daniel, NPR, 16 Apr. 2026

Steelhead, which are also known as inland stream rainbow trout, are among Michigan's most popular sport fish. —Paula Wethington, CBS News, 15 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1880, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for rainbow trout

• roundabout
• runabout
• sauerkraut
• thereabout
• turnabout
• about
• bailout
• blackout
• blowout
• breakout
• burnout
• buyout

Kids Definition

rainbow trout

noun

: a large trout native to western North America that usually has red or pink stripes with black dots on its sides compare steelhead