swordfish

noun

sword·​fish ˈsȯrd-ˌfish How to pronounce swordfish (audio)
: a very large scombroid fish (Xiphias gladius of the family Xiphiidae) that has a long swordlike beak formed by the bones of the upper jaw and is an important food and game fish

Illustration of swordfish

Illustration of swordfish

Examples of swordfish in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There is excellent complexity and fullness on the palate; this has enough character and weight to pair with rich dishes such as veal marsala or swordfish. Tom Hyland, Forbes, 30 Dec. 2024 But Loaiza loves pouring Pinot Noir with meatier cuts of fish, such as salmon, swordfish, and tuna. Karla Walsh, Southern Living, 9 Dec. 2024 Whatever the reason, this sort of duel isn’t exclusive to just swordfish and blue sharks. Melissa Cristina Marquez, Forbes, 9 Jan. 2025 Their plan was to then haul the swordfish onto the boat’s stern swim platform. Bob McNally, Outdoor Life, 24 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for swordfish 

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of swordfish was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near swordfish

Cite this Entry

“Swordfish.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/swordfish. Accessed 24 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

swordfish

noun
sword·​fish -ˌfish How to pronounce swordfish (audio)
: a very large ocean fish that has a long swordlike beak formed by the bones of the upper jaw and is an important food and game fish

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