Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of shark: A bottom-dwelling shark with a broad, flat body and winglike pectoral fins, belonging to the genus Squatina. It is also known as an angel shark.
   • A type of anglerfish: A large-mouthed marine fish, specifically Lophius americanus, found in Atlantic waters, which uses a wormlike filament to lure prey. This is also commonly called a goosefish.
   • The flesh of the anglerfish as food: The edible meat from the large-headed anglerfish, considered a seafood delicacy.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Shark):

  • The monkfish is often mistaken for a ray due to its flat body.
  • Divers spotted a monkfish camouflaged on the ocean floor.

• Noun (Anglerfish):

  • The monkfish uses a bioluminescent lure to attract smaller fish.
  • We studied the unique hunting method of the Atlantic monkfish.

• Noun (Food):

  • The chef prepared a delicious monkfish stew.
  • Monkfish is often called "poor man's lobster" due to its firm, sweet texture.

Advanced Usage

• "Monkfish liver": Considered a delicacy in some cuisines, similar to foie gras.
  • The sushi bar serves monkfish liver, which is rich and flavorful.

Variants and Related Words

• Goosefish: Another common name for the anglerfish species .
• Angel shark: Another common name for the shark species in the genus .
• Anglerfish: The broader family of fish (Lophiidae) to which the food fish "monkfish" belongs.

Synonyms

• For the shark: Angel shark, Squatina.
• For the anglerfish: Goosefish, fishing frog, sea-devil.
• For the food: (Often no direct synonym, but described as) firm white fish.

Related Phrases

• Monkfish tail: The part of the fish most commonly sold for consumption.
  • The recipe calls for two monkfish tails, skinned and deboned.

Notes on Different Meanings

It is important to distinguish between the two primary biological meanings: 1. The monkfish (shark) is a cartilaginous fish, a type of elasmobranch. 2. The monkfish (anglerfish) is a bony fish, prized in commercial fisheries. The context (marine biology vs. culinary) usually makes the intended meaning clear.

Noun

1. sharks with broad flat bodies and winglike pectoral fins but that swim the way sharks do
2. fishes having large mouths with a wormlike filament attached for luring prey
3. flesh of a large-headed anglerfish of the Atlantic waters of North America