sailfish

noun

sail·​fish ˈsāl-ˌfish How to pronounce sailfish (audio)
: any of a genus (Istiophorus, especially I. platypterus) of billfishes having a very large dorsal fin

Examples of sailfish in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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For a higher-octane experience, venture further afield aboard one of the resort’s two twin-engine game fishing boats (measuring 55 and 35 feet) in search of marlin, sailfish, and swordfish to catch and release. Alexandra Kirkman, Robb Report, 29 May 2025 Cool temperatures offshore prompt migratory species such as sailfish to swim to South Florida. Steve Waters, Miami Herald, 11 Jan. 2025 Meanwhile, sailfish and sea trout usually bite pretty well immediately after a cold front. Steve Waters, Miami Herald, 11 Jan. 2025 If a sailfish comes up and eats a kite bait, keep an eye out on the other baits, because chances are another sailfish is around. Steve Waters, Miami Herald, 11 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sailfish

Word History

First Known Use

1879, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sailfish was in 1879

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Cite this Entry

“Sailfish.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sailfish. Accessed 5 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

sailfish

noun
sail·​fish -ˌfish How to pronounce sailfish (audio)
: any of a genus of large sea fishes that are related to the swordfish and marlins and have long slender jaws and a very large fin like a sail on the back

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