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

1. 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
2. flesh of swordfish usually served as steaks