Search Dictionary
Definition of shubunkin goldfish
shubunkin goldfish
Plural:shubunkin goldfish
• noun
1
A hardy, single-tailed breed of domestic goldfish (Carassius auratus) originally developed in Japan, characterized by its nacreous scales and a distinct calico pattern typically featuring a blue base mottled with red, orange, yellow, brown, and black spots.
Example
"Because of their resilience and striking blue mottled coloring, shubunkin goldfish are an excellent choice for outdoor backyard ponds."
Word Nuance & Usage
Often referred to simply as a 'shubunkin', this specific breed is primarily distinguished by its calico coloration and is frequently chosen for outdoor ponds due to its hardiness.
• Nearby Words
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.
180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Shubunkin goldfish. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 16, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/shubunkin%20goldfish