What does monkfish mean?
Monkfish is the name of a distinctive-looking marine fish and, in culinary contexts, of its firm white flesh. The fish has a broad, flattened head, an enormous mouth, and a body that narrows toward the tail. Its unusual appearance is traditionally explained by comparison with a monk wearing a hood, with the folds around the head forming the supposed hood. In British English, the name usually refers to the species Lophius piscatorius, while North American usage often applies it to several related anglerfish species. Chefs value the flesh for its delicate texture and relatively mild flavor, and commonly use the fillets or the small, tender pieces known as monkfish cheeks. The name is established in both British and American English, although the precise species intended can vary by region and market.
nounA large marine fish with a broad, flattened head, a large mouth, and a tapering body, found in the eastern Atlantic and other parts of the North Atlantic. The name refers to the fish's supposed resemblance to a hooded monk; in North America, it commonly refers to an anglerfish of the family Lophiidae.
- The fish itself, especially certain North Atlantic species of the family Lophiidae.
- The flesh of this fish, prized as a firm, delicate food.
"The restaurant served grilled monkfish with lemon and herbs."
"Monkfish is often sold as thick fillets or as the tender cheeks near the head."
"The fishermen brought a large monkfish ashore and cleaned it beside the boat."
The form monkfish is commonly used for both singular and plural in ordinary usage, while monkfishes is used when referring collectively to multiple fish or multiple species.
"The chef bought two monkfish at the market."
The monkfish earned its name from the dark, fleshy flap around its head, which can look a little like a monk's hood.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does monkfish come from?
Monkfish is a compound formed in the 16th century from English monk and fish. The fish's name is traditionally derived from the folds of skin around its head, which were thought to resemble a monk's cowl. The word monk itself comes through Old English from Latin monachus, a term ultimately associated with Greek monachos, meaning a solitary person.
How monkfish is actually used
In British usage, the name most often refers to Lophius piscatorius and its flesh. In North American usage, it is a common commercial name for several Lophiidae species, especially Lophius americanus. The name is also used for the fish's white, firm flesh.
Easily confused with monkfish
An anglerfish is the broader group of fishes that includes monkfish, whereas monkfish usually refers to particular species within that group.