The Plural of Octopus


(YouTube link)

Every time we blog about an octopus, or rather, more than one octopus, we can count on a debate in the comments about the proper plural form for the animal. Here's the real scoop from Kory Stamper, who is an Associate Editor at Merriam-Webster, the dictionary company. -via Holy Kaw!

My favorite marine life, I've always like octopods, and now I know why. When the last time anyone saw a group of octopodes? Lately we've just seen individuals making their mark.
Abusive comment hidden. (Show it anyway.)
It's either octopuses or octopi whether you're talking about more than one species or more than one octopus. It's just that I forget which is which. And I learnulated this when I was a Marine Bio major, so it must be true. Whichever one it was.
Abusive comment hidden. (Show it anyway.)
I knew about octopodes, but I pronounced it phonetically (octo-powds), rather than "oct-opoddies" like she did.

I am English though, so I imagine I speak with a so-called "British" accent.
Abusive comment hidden. (Show it anyway.)
I wonder if the same is true for cactuses/cacti? Both area correct, but people always give me funny looks when I say cactuses, which I prefer because it sounds silly.
Abusive comment hidden. (Show it anyway.)
Crap! I knew about octopus being a Greek derivative and the derived plural being octopodes, but I had only read this, never heard anyone say it... so I've been mispronouncing octopodes for years. I feel so ashamed.
Abusive comment hidden. (Show it anyway.)
Login to comment.
Click here to access all of this post's 18 comments




Email This Post to a Friend
"The Plural of Octopus"

Separate multiple emails with a comma. Limit 5.

 

Success! Your email has been sent!

close window
X

This website uses cookies.

This website uses cookies to improve user experience. By using this website you consent to all cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

I agree
 
Learn More