Definition

1. Noun:
   • A species of fish (Salmo salar): A type of salmon native to the rivers and coastal waters of the North Atlantic Ocean. Unlike Pacific salmon species, adults of this species can survive to spawn multiple times.
   • The food product: The meat from this fish, valued for its flavor and texture, often prepared and sold fresh.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Species):
  • The Atlantic salmon is an anadromous fish, meaning it migrates from the sea to freshwater rivers to spawn.
  • Conservation efforts are crucial for protecting wild Atlantic salmon populations.
• Noun (Food):
  • For dinner, we grilled a fillet of Atlantic salmon with lemon and herbs.
  • This recipe calls for fresh Atlantic salmon, not the canned variety.

Advanced Usage

• The term is used in biological and ecological contexts to distinguish from Pacific salmon species (genus ), which typically die after spawning.
• In culinary and commercial contexts, "Atlantic salmon" often specifies the origin or farming method, as much of the supply is now farm-raised.

Variants and Related Words

• Salmon (noun): The broader category of fish which includes both Atlantic and Pacific species.
• Salmo salar (noun): The scientific binomial name for the Atlantic salmon.

Synonyms

• (For the species): .
• (For the food): Salmon, fresh salmon.

Notes on Meaning

• The two primary meanings are directly linked: the first refers to the living animal, and the second refers to its culinary use. The context of the sentence usually makes it clear which meaning is intended.

Noun

1. found in northern coastal Atlantic waters or tributaries; adults do not die after spawning
2. fatty pink flesh of fish from northern coastal Atlantic; usually marketed fresh