Plural of Octopus: The Easy Guide to Getting It Right

Ever wondered if you should say "octopuses" or "octopi"? You’re not alone. The word octopus comes from Greek, but English speakers treat it like a regular noun most of the time. In this guide we’ll break down the two main forms, show when each fits, and give you a quick cheat‑sheet you can use on the spot.

Most Common Choice: Octopuses

In everyday English, the safest bet is octopuses. The rule is simple: if a noun ends in -s, add -es. That works for octopus, matches how we pluralise "bus" (buses) and "kiss" (kisses), and avoids the awkward look of a Latin ending. Most style guides, dictionaries, and news outlets use octopuses, so you’ll rarely get corrected for it.

Latin‑Style Option: Octopi

Some people prefer octopi because they think the word is Latin and therefore should follow the Latin -i ending (like "cactus" to "cacti"). The tricky part is that octopus is actually Greek, not Latin, so the Latin rule doesn’t technically apply. Still, octopi shows up in informal writing and on social media, and most readers understand what you mean. If you’re writing a science blog or a playful piece, you can use it, but keep an eye on your audience.

There’s also a third, less common form: octopodes. This follows the original Greek plural, but you’ll almost never see it outside academic papers. Using it in a casual setting might look pretentious.

So, which one should you pick? If you want to sound natural and avoid a grammar flag, go with octopuses. Save octopi for a relaxed tone or when you’re deliberately playing with language. And only reach for octopodes if you’re writing for a Greek‑language class or a very scholarly article.

Quick cheat‑sheet:

• Standard English: octopuses
• Informal/Playful: octopi
• Academic Greek: octopodes

Remember, the most important thing is consistency. Pick the form that fits your style and stick with it throughout your text. That way readers won’t get confused and you’ll keep your writing looking polished.

Now you’ve got the low‑down on the plural of octopus. The next time you talk about a group of these eight‑armed creatures, you’ll know exactly which word to use and why. Happy writing!