Meaning & Definition of word "Mackerel"
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Mackerel
/ˈmæk.ə.rəl/
noun:
- 1. A large, elongated fish of the family Scombridae, commonly found in warm waters and often eaten as food.
- Example: The chef prepared grilled mackerel with a lemon sauce.
- 2. Any of several species of fish related to the true mackerels, including the Spanish mackerel and king mackerel.
- Example: We caught a few Spanish mackerels during our fishing trip.
- 3. A type of fish used in canning or as bait.
- Example: Mackerel is a popular bait for larger fish.
- 4. The flesh of mackerel as food.
- Example: I enjoy eating smoked mackerel on toast.
Etymology
Middle English, possibly from Old French maquerel, diminutive form of maque 'a fish'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
mackerel sky:
A pattern of clouds that resembles the stripes of a mackerel, indicating possible changeable weather.
Related Words
scombridae:
The family of fish that includes mackerels and tuna.
tuna:
A large, robust fish often found in warmer waters, closely related to the mackerel.
Slang Meanings of mackerel
Meaning: To fish for mackerel.
Example Sentence: We went mackereling last summer in the ocean.
Meaning: Mackerel as an expression of something that is overly flashy or showy.
Example Sentence: That outfit is so mackerel, it's hard to take her seriously.