dragonfish
dragonfish Lexical Profile
dragonfish Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A highly prized freshwater bony fish of the family Osteoglossidae, native to rivers in Southeast Asia, characterized by large, metallic scales and two barbell-like extensions on its lower jaw.
"Many wealthy aquarium hobbyists in Asia prize the golden dragonfish for its reputation of bringing prosperity and good luck to the household."
Any of various small, predatory deep-sea fishes of the family Stomiidae, found in oceans worldwide and characterized by elongated bodies, oversized fang-like teeth, and bioluminescent organs used to lure prey in the dark abyss.
"The deep-sea dragonfish uses a glowing lure attached to its chin to attract unsuspecting prey in the pitch-black waters of the ocean's twilight zone."
Word Nuance & Usage
The term 'dragonfish' is a common name applied to several biologically unrelated aquatic species, most notably the fierce, bioluminescent deep-sea marine fishes and the highly prized freshwater Asian arowana.
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
A compound of 'dragon' and 'fish', named for the ferocious, mythical appearance of these species, which often feature oversized teeth, snakelike bodies, or prominent barbels.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.