kingklip

noun

king·​klip

ˈkiŋˌklip

plural -s

: a mottled cusk eel of southern Africa (Genypterus capensis) that attains a length of five feet and is highly esteemed as food

kingklip liver is of a delicacy and flavor unsurpassed by even chicken liver

—J. L. B. Smith

Word History

Etymology

short for kingklipfish, from king + klipfish; translation of Afrikaans koningklipvis

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now