What does swordfish mean?
A swordfish is a large, powerful ocean fish recognized by its elongated, flattened bill, which resembles a sword. It is a member of the billfish group and inhabits warm and temperate seas, where it hunts fish and squid. Swordfish are notable for their speed, size, and distinctive appearance, and they are also important to commercial and recreational fisheries. On menus and in everyday speech, 'swordfish' commonly refers to the fish's meat, which is firm and widely used in grilled, broiled, and seared dishes. Although its bill can look like a weapon, it is a natural adaptation used in hunting rather than a separate organ. The name is a straightforward compound of 'sword' and 'fish,' and it has become especially familiar through wildlife documentaries, sport fishing, and international seafood cuisine.
nounA large, fast-swimming predatory marine fish with a long, flattened, sword-like bill. It is found in warm and temperate oceans and is valued as a food fish and game fish.
- A large predatory marine fish with a long, flattened, sword-like bill.
"They grilled swordfish with lemon and herbs for a summer dinner."
"The fisherman caught a swordfish just beyond the reef."
"Swordfish populations migrate through warm waters, and the species is popular in seafood cuisine."
The usual plural form; 'swordfish' is also occasionally used unchanged when referring to the species generally.
"The market sells fresh swordfishes from several coastal fisheries."
A swordfish's bill is not a sword but a highly specialized extension of its skull, used to slash or stun prey.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does swordfish come from?
The word combines English 'sword' with English 'fish.' 'Sword' continues Old English sweord, while 'fish' continues Old English fisc; both are inherited Germanic words. The compound names the fish by the most conspicuous feature of its anatomy: the long, flattened, sword-like projection of its upper jaw.
Related word forms
How swordfish is actually used
The word is normally countable, with the plural 'swordfishes.' In culinary contexts, 'swordfish' commonly refers to the flesh served as food. The word may also be used attributively, as in 'swordfish migration.'
Easily confused with swordfish
Swordfish have a broad, flattened bill and generally lack the prominent sail-like dorsal fin characteristic of marlin.