swordfish
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A large marine fish: A very large, predatory fish (Xiphias gladius) that lives in the ocean. It is notable for its long, flat, pointed upper jaw that resembles a sword. 2. The flesh of this fish as food: The meat from the swordfish, which is firm, mild in flavor, and often cut into thick slices (steaks) for cooking.
Usage and Examples
- Referring to the animal:
- The swordfish uses its long bill to slash at and stun its prey.
- We saw a swordfish leap out of the water during the boat trip.
- Referring to the food:
- For dinner, I ordered grilled swordfish with a lemon butter sauce.
- Swordfish steaks are best cooked over high heat.
Advanced Usage and Characteristics
- Swordfish are unique among fish because they are not completely cold-blooded. They have a special organ near their eyes that warms their brain and eyes, improving their vision when hunting in deep, cold water.
- Their typical behavior involves diving to the cold ocean floor to feed and coming closer to the surface at night.
- They are found in warm waters worldwide but are highly migratory.
Variants and Related Words
- Broadbill: Another common name for the swordfish.
- Swordfish steak: The specific cut of the fish prepared for cooking.
Synonyms
- (For the fish): Broadbill.
- (For the food): Swordfish steak.
Related Phrases and Collocations
- To catch a swordfish: Refers to the act of fishing for this species.
- It took three hours to catch that swordfish.
- Swordfish fishery: Refers to the industry or activity of catching swordfish commercially.
- Grilled/Broiled/Blackened swordfish: Common cooking methods for this type of fish.
Noun
- large toothless marine food fish with a long swordlike upper jaw; not completely cold-blooded i.e. they are able to warm their brains and eyes: worldwide in warm waters but feed on cold ocean floor coming to surface at night
- flesh of swordfish usually served as steaks