Billfish Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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billfish

[ˈbɪlˌfɪʃ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

fishing species

Billfish are a group of large, elongated fish known for their spear-like snouts and include species such as marlins, swordfish, and sailfish. They are highly sought after in sport fishing due to their size and fighting ability. Billfish are known for their remarkable speed and acrobatics when hooked.

Synonyms

marlins, sailfish, swordfish.

Examples of usage

  • Anglers often seek billfish for the thrill of the catch.
  • The sailfish is one of the fastest billfish in the ocean.
  • Many tournaments focus on billfish species for competitive fishing.

Translations

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Origin of 'billfish'

The term 'billfish' originates from the combination of 'bill', referring to the elongated, bill-like snouts of these fish, and 'fish', denoting their classification as a species in the animal kingdom. The word has been in use since at least the early 20th century and has become widely recognized in both recreational and commercial fishing communities. Billfish species are part of the family Istiophoridae and are known for their striking appearance and impressive swimming abilities. The historical significance of billfish is notable in marine ecosystems as they are apex predators, and they hold cultural importance in many coastal communities around the world, often celebrated in fishing tournaments and local traditions.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,932, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.