Definition

Noun: A fishpond is a small, artificial or natural body of freshwater that is specifically created or used for keeping, breeding, or raising fish.

Usage

The word fishpond is a countable noun. It refers to the physical location or structure itself. It is typically used to describe a controlled aquatic environment, often found on private property, farms, or in managed landscapes, as opposed to a large natural lake or river.

Examples

• The estate's beautiful garden features a large fishpond stocked with koi.
• They built a small fishpond in their backyard to raise fish for their family.
• The old monastery had a fishpond that provided a source of food for the residents.

Advanced Usage

• Metaphorical Use: In historical or economic contexts, "fishpond" can metaphorically refer to a small, controlled, or exclusive environment from which to draw resources or people.
  • The university was his fishpond for recruiting talented young researchers.

Variants and Related Words

• Fish farm (noun): A larger-scale commercial operation for breeding and raising fish, often in tanks or enclosures.
• Pond (noun): A general term for a small body of still water, which may or may not contain fish.
• Stock pond (noun): A pond built to provide water for livestock, which may also contain fish.

Synonyms

• Fishing pond
• Ornamental pond (when specifically for decorative fish like koi or goldfish)

Notes on Meaning

The core meaning of fishpond is a pond containing fish. Its primary connotation is of a managed, often human-made, feature. It distinguishes itself from a simple "pond" by explicitly stating its purpose for fish. The metaphorical usage is less common but highlights the idea of a confined and manageable source.

Noun

1. a freshwater pond with fish