The word "redear" is pronounced as [ri-dɪər]. It is spelled with the prefix "re-" meaning "again" and the word "ear", referring to the organ of hearing. The spelling of this word reflects the way it is pronounced phonetically. The "r" sound at the beginning of the word is followed by a short "i" sound and the stress falls on the second syllable. The "d" and "r" sounds are pronounced separately, making it easier for the reader to understand the word's meaning.
Redear is a noun that primarily refers to a type of freshwater fish scientifically known as Lepomis microlophus, belonging to the family Centrarchidae. This species is native to North America, particularly the southeastern region. The redear fish, also commonly referred to as shellcracker or sun perch, is distinguished by its oval-shaped, laterally compressed body. It typically exhibits a pronounced red patch, or "ear," on the operculum flap covering its gills, which gives rise to its name.
This freshwater species prefers quiet, warm waters such as lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers, favoring habitats with vegetation or submerged trees. They are omnivorous creatures, featuring a diet consisting of insects, aquatic plants, mollusks, and various crustaceans. Redear are known for their feeding behavior, which involves crushing shells with their powerful jaws, enabling them to reach the mollusk flesh inside.
Redear are often sought after by anglers due to their size, flavor, and fight when caught. They are considered popular game fish in regions where they are abundant. Additionally, this species can have positive ecological impacts by reducing populations of unwanted snails and controlling the growth of vegetation in some bodies of water.
Overall, the redear is a freshwater fish recognizable by its oval body shape and distinctive red patch near its gills. Its preference for warm waters, its omnivorous feeding habits, and its popularity among anglers contribute to its significant presence in North American lakes and rivers.
The word "redear" does not have a well-established etymology. It is a compound word derived from "red" and "ear", but its specific origins are unclear.
One possible explanation is that "redear" is derived from the appearance of the fish known as the "red-eared sunfish". This particular species of freshwater fish has a distinctive red spot on its gill cover, giving it the name "red-eared". Hence, "redear" could have been coined to describe this fish.
Another possibility is that "redear" is a combination of "red" and "ear" in a descriptive sense. The term could have been created to highlight the red coloration near the ear area of certain animals or even the redness that occurs due to embarrassment or a flushed face around the ears.
Given the lack of definitive evidence, the exact etymology of "redear" remains uncertain.