What does sablefish mean?
A sablefish is a large, oily marine fish native to the cold waters of the North Pacific, particularly around British Columbia, Alaska, and nearby areas. It has dark, almost black skin and firm white flesh with a rich, buttery texture. Because the species resembles cod in flavor and appearance, it is frequently sold as black cod, even though it is not related to true cod. Sablefish may be served fresh or smoked, and smaller portions from the cheeks and head are especially prized. The fish is also notable for its extraordinary longevity, with some individuals living for more than two centuries. In menus and seafood markets, the standard name sablefish is clearest, while black cod is familiar and widely understood.
nounA large, dark-skinned marine fish of the eastern North Pacific, valued for its rich, firm white flesh. It is also commonly called black cod, although it is not a member of the cod family.
- The sablefish itself, a large North Pacific fish with dark skin and firm white flesh.
"The restaurant served grilled sablefish with lemon and fresh herbs."
"Fresh sablefish is widely available along the Pacific coast of Canada and Alaska."
"Smoked sablefish has a rich flavor and a texture similar to that of salmon."
The form is normally unchanged in the plural; sablefishes also occurs but is less common.
"Several sablefish were delivered to the market that morning."
Sablefish are exceptionally long-lived: some individuals can survive for more than 200 years.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sablefish come from?
The word is an English compound of sable, denoting a very dark or blackish color, and fish. The reference to color helps explain the older common name black cod, although sablefish is taxonomically distinct from cod. The element sable ultimately derives through French from Latin sabulum, 'sand,' a root also reflected in the English word sabulous.
How sablefish is actually used
The name is especially common in North American fisheries and restaurants. 'Black cod' is a widespread commercial name, while 'blackfish' is less precise because it can refer to other fish.
Easily confused with sablefish
Sablefish is commonly called black cod, but it is a distinct species and is not related to the true cod family.