Gymnotus \Gym*no"tus\ (j[i^]m*n[=o]"t[u^]s), n. [NL., fr. Gr.
gymno`s naked + nw^tos the back: cf. F. gymnote.] (Zool.)
A genus of South American fresh-water fishes, including the
{Gymnotus electricus}, or electric eel. It has a greenish,
eel-like body, and is possessed of electric power.
[1913 Webster]
One fearful shock, fearful but momentary, like that
from the electric blow of the gymnotus. --De Quincey.
[1913 Webster]