fish-gig
Definition
Noun: - A fish-gig is a type of fishing implement consisting of a long, pointed pole or spear, often barbed or pronged, used to strike or impale fish. It is similar to a harpoon but typically smaller and designed for use in shallow water or from a boat.
Usage Examples
- (He used the spear to catch the fish.)
- (The implement is still used in some cultures.)
Advanced Usage
- "To fish with a fish-gig": the act of using this specific tool, often called .
- They spent the evening fish-gigging for flounder in the tidal flats. (They used a fish-gig to catch fish.)
Variants and Related Words
- Gig (n): a short form of ; also refers to the act of fishing with such a spear.
- He carried a gig for night fishing. (He carried a fish-gig.)
- Gigger (n): a person who uses a fish-gig.
- The gigger moved silently through the shallow water. (The person fishing with a gig.)
- Gigging (n/v): the activity or process of using a fish-gig.
- Gigging is a popular sport in some regions. (The activity of fishing with a gig.)
Synonyms
- Fish spear: a general term for a pointed tool used to catch fish.
- Harpoon: a larger, often barbed spear used for hunting marine animals, though typically thrown from a distance.
Related Idioms
- "Gigging for compliments": (unrelated to fishing) a playful idiom meaning to seek praise indirectly, but not directly associated with .
Etymology Note
- The word combines (the animal) and (a light, two-wheeled carriage or a spear), with in this context likely derived from an earlier term for a pronged fishing tool.