Definition

Noun 1. A type of large North American freshwater catfish: Specifically, it refers to a species of large catfish native to the central United States, characterized by a broad, flattened head and a projecting lower jaw.

Usage

• The term "goujon" is a specific common name for a particular fish species (), also widely known as the flathead catfish.
• It is used in zoology, ichthyology (the study of fish), and in contexts related to fishing, wildlife, and regional cuisine in the central United States.
• Example: "Anglers on the Mississippi River hope to catch a record-breaking goujon."

Examples

• "The goujon is a bottom-feeding predator common in large rivers."
• "Local folklore tells stories of giant goujons lurking in the deep holes of the riverbed."
• "Biologists are studying the migration patterns of the goujon in this watershed."

Advanced Usage / Notes

• The word "goujon" is less common than the name "flathead catfish." In most general contexts, "flathead catfish" is the preferred term to avoid confusion.
• In a different, primarily British culinary context, "goujon" (often "fish goujon") can refer to a strip of fish, usually breaded and fried. This is a separate meaning derived from French. The definition provided here is for the specific North American fish species.

Variants and Related Words

• Flathead catfish: The most common synonym and alternative name for this fish.
• Mud cat: Another regional common name for the same species.
• Shovelhead cat: A descriptive nickname referencing its head shape.
• Pylodictis olivaris: The scientific (Latin) name for the species.

Synonyms

• Flathead catfish
• Mud cat
• Shovelhead cat

Related Phrases / Idioms

• No specific idioms are commonly associated with the word "goujon" in its primary meaning as a fish species.

Noun

1. large catfish of central United States having a flattened head and projecting jaw