Search Dictionary
Definition of menhaden

menhaden

/mɛnˈheɪ.dən/
men · ha · den
Plural:menhaden
JUMP TO:

menhaden Lexical Profile

menhaden Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

North American A marine fish of the herring family (genus Brevoortia), native to the western Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, harvested extensively for fish meal, fish oil, and bait rather than for direct human consumption.

Example

"The commercial fleet harvested thousands of tons of menhaden to be processed into nutrient-rich agricultural fertilizer and supplements."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for menhaden

• Rhymes for menhaden

• Nearby Words

memphis
menagerie
mendoza
menhaden
menhir
menorah
menu

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Algonquian language, specifically the Narragansett word 'munnawhatteaug', meaning 'that which enriches the earth' or 'fertilizer', as Native Americans historically used the fish to fertilize their corn crops.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Menhaden. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/menhaden
Wordmom is your complete guide to the English language. Whether you're looking up a definition, searching for the perfect synonym, or unscrambling letters for a word game, our comprehensive suite of tools is designed to help you find the right word, every time.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE®, Words With Friends®, Wordle®, and related game titles or tournament codes are registered trademarks of their respective owners (including Hasbro, Mattel, Zynga, The New York Times, NASPA, and WESPA). Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes, not affiliated with, sponsored, or endorsed by these entities. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use for compatibility.