Pl. -iums, -ia. [L., neut. sing. of aquārius (see prec.); cf. cl. L. aquārium a watering-place for cattle.] An artificial pond or tank (the latter usually with glass sides), in which aquatic plants and animals are kept alive for purposes of observation and study. Also, in recent usage, a place of public entertainment, in which such aquariums are exhibited.
[1853. Athenæum, 28 May, 647/2. This place [the new Fish house] has received … the somewhat curious title of the ‘Marine Vivarium.’
1853. Guide Zool. Gard., Aquatic Vivarium.]
1854. Gosse (title), The Aquarium; an Unveiling of the Wonders of the Deep Sea.
1855. Kingsley, Glaucus, 154. A prawn or two, and a few minute star-fish will make your aquarium complete.
1869. Eng. Mech., 14 May, 179/3. I have had aquariums made of several other materials, but find zinc the most successful.
1880. Disraeli, Endym., I. xx. 178. There were no Alhambras then, and no Cremornes, no palaces of crystal in terraced gardens, no casinos, no music-halls, no aquaria, no promenade concerts.
