Definition

Noun: 1. A large, deep-sea fish: Refers to a specific type of very long, slender, ribbon-like fish that lives in deep tropical waters. It is notable for its elongated body and a distinctive red dorsal fin that runs along much of its length.

Usage Notes

• The term "king of the herring" is a common name for this specific fish species. It is not a type of herring but gets its name from its appearance.
• It is typically used in marine biology, fishing contexts, or when describing rare deep-sea creatures.
• This is a countable noun (e.g., , ).

Examples

• Noun:
  • Marine biologists were thrilled to film a live king of the herring during their deep-sea expedition.
  • The king of the herring is rarely seen near the surface.
  • A specimen of the king of the herring was washed ashore after the storm.

Advanced Usage

• The "king of the herring" is often cited in discussions about sea serpent legends, as its rare appearances may have contributed to mythical stories.
  • Some cryptozoologists speculate that historical sightings of sea serpents were actually encounters with the elusive king of the herring.

Variants and Related Words

• Oarfish: (noun) This is the more formal and scientific common name for the same fish species (). The terms "king of the herring" and "oarfish" are often used interchangeably.
  • The oarfish is the longest bony fish in the world.

Synonyms

• Oarfish: The primary synonym.
• Ribbonfish: A general name for long, thin fish, which can sometimes refer to this species or similar ones.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• (As) rare as a king of the herring: An informal simile used to describe something extremely uncommon or seldom seen. (This is a constructed idiom based on the creature's rarity).
  • Original manuscripts from that author are as rare as a king of the herring.

Noun

1. thin deep-water tropical fish 20 to 30 feet long having a red dorsal fin