Definitions

1. adjective

relating to the open sea; not near land or coast

“The pelagial ecosystem is home to a diverse array of marine life.”

2. noun

the part of the ocean that is open sea, as opposed to a sea or ocean bordering a continent

“The research vessel sailed through the vast pelagial waters of the Pacific.”

3. adjective

relating to the water column of the ocean, excluding the sea bed and the surface waters

“The pelagial zone of the ocean is home to many deep-sea creatures.”