prawn
UK[prɔːn]US[prɔːn]
n
A small sea creature with a shell and ten legs, that can be eaten. It is similar to a shrimp but larger.
Etymology
The word 'prawn' entered English in the early 15th century, but its ultimate origin is obscure and debated. It is likely a borrowing from a regional Italian or Provençal word, such as 'paranza' or 'prawna', which may themselves have roots in the Latin 'perna', meaning 'ham' or 'leg of mutton', possibly in reference to the shape of the creature. The word's journey reflects the movement of culinary and maritime vocabulary across Mediterranean and Northern European languages. Its specific application to a crustacean distinct from a shrimp solidified in English usage.
Analysis
The word 'prawn' is a simplex word. It does not contain separable morphemes within its modern English spelling.
Examples
We grilled some fresh prawns with garlic and lemon.
The fisherman's net was full of prawns and small fish.
This curry is made with king prawns and coconut milk.