anchovy

noun

an·​cho·​vy ˈan-ˌchō-vē 

an-ˈchō-vē

plural anchovies or anchovy

: any of a family (Engraulidae) of small fishes resembling herrings that includes several (such as Engraulis encrasicolus) that are important food fishes used especially in appetizers, as a garnish, and for making sauces and relishes

Examples of anchovy in a Sentence

a salad topped with garlic and anchovies

Recent Examples on the Web

Maybe try a different pizza place, or throw a few anchovies on a slice (really). —Bill Goodykoontz, AZCentral.com, 7 July 2025

To start, perhaps a light combination of roasted cauliflower and anchovies or the red pepper mousse, then the hake with a creamy rosemary beurre blanc beef cheek. —Eleanor Aldridge, AFAR Media, 30 May 2025

Add capers, anchovies and fresh thyme leaves; process until minced, scraping down sides of bowl as needed. 2. —Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 23 June 2025

Marinated anchovies and sardines are also produced here. —Laura Itzkowitz, Travel + Leisure, 11 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

Spanish anchova

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for anchovy

• novae
• supernovae

Kids Definition

anchovy

noun

an·​cho·​vy ˈan-ˌchō-vē 

an-ˈchō-vē

plural anchovies or anchovy

: any of numerous small fishes resembling herrings that include several that are important food fishes used especially for sauces and relishes