anglerfish

noun

ang·​ler·​fish ˈaŋ-glər-ˌfish 

: any of several pediculate fishes (such as the goosefishes)

especially : monkfish

Examples of anglerfish in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

From the Remo flounder to the anglerfish to the suckerfish, dorsal fin modifications provide insight into how fish evolve to fit their needs. —Katie Cottingham, Smithsonian Magazine, 9 Sep. 2024

Others resemble a bioluminescent fishing rod, like the one on top of the anglerfish, that lures prey toward its gaping mouth. —Katie Cottingham, Smithsonian Magazine, 9 Sep. 2024

An anglerfish, also known as monkfish, preys on a torpedo ray. —Cecilia Rodriguez, Forbes, 16 Aug. 2024

This unusual mating method has likely helped anglerfish become one of the deep sea’s most diverse vertebrates, with some 300 species in all. —Christian Thorsberg, Smithsonian Magazine, 3 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

angler + fish entry 1; so called from the lure-like luminescent organ that extends from the tip of a modified dorsal fin in females

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

anglerfish

noun

an·​gler·​fish

-ˌfish

: a bottom-dwelling marine fish that has a large flat head with parts that stick out and lure other fish within reach of its broad mouth