groundling

English

Etymology

From ground +‎ -ling. Compare Old English grundling (“a groundling fish, grundel”).

Noun

groundling (plural groundlings)

1. Any of various plants or animals living on or near the ground, as a benthic fish or bottom feeder, especially
   1. The spined loach, Cobitis taenia, or other loaches.
   2. The ringed plover, Charadrius hiaticula.
2. by association, an individual of uncultivated or uncultured taste
3. in Elizabethan theater: an audience member (usually standing) in the cheap section

See also

• (cheap section): nosebleed seat, peanut gallery

References

• Notes from an edition of Hamlet