Synonyms for

Crabs

Noun / kræbz / Another word for crabs — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Crabs are sea creatures with a hard shell, eight legs, and two pincers.

Synonyms & similar words

grouse holler cancer crabmeat crab bellyache bitch squawk beef gripe shellfish lobster shrimp crawfish prawn crayfish oyster clam mussel scallop snail barnacle cockle periwinkle whelk abalone conch cuttlefish nautilus octopus

Synonyms by register

Formal

stinginess avarice parsimony miserliness

Informal

cheapness tightfistedness penny-pinching scrooge

Literary

avariciousness covetousness

Antonyms

generosity kindness benevolence munificence philanthropy

Common collocations

  • tight with money
  • mean with money
  • clutching at money
  • hoarding money
  • counting every penny
  • stingy with praise
  • stingy with time

Word family

noun crab
verb crab
adjective crabby

Usage note

While 'crab' can refer to the crustacean, it is most commonly used informally to describe a person who is habitually stingy or ill-tempered. The adjective 'crabby' is more common for describing a bad mood.

Compare "crabs" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. I saw a crab at the beach yesterday.
  2. The crab was hiding under a rock.
  3. Crabs have two big pincers.
  4. I can't eat crabs because I'm allergic to shellfish.
  5. Crabs walk sideways.

Quotes

  • A crab walks so beautifully that its walk is called a 'crab crawl.' - Christian Nestell Bovee
  • I'm a Cancer, so I'm a crab. I'm very sensitive and loyal and I will pinch you if you mess with the people I love. - Christina Perri
  • You can't have everything. Where would you put it? - Steven Wright

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