pilchard

[ pil-cherd ]

noun

1. a small, southern European, marine fish, Sardina pilchardus, related to the herring but smaller and rounder.
2. any of several related fishes, as Sardinops caeruleus, common off the California coast.

pilchard

/ ˈpɪltʃəd /

noun

1. a European food fish, Sardina (or Clupea ) pilchardus, with a rounded body covered with large scales: family Clupeidae (herrings)
2. a related fish, Sardinops neopilchardus , of S Australian waters

Word History and Origins

Origin of pilchard¹

First recorded in 1520–30; earlier pilcher; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of pilchard¹

C16: pylcher, of obscure origin

Example Sentences

In its harbour we now saw a large fleet of boats, engaged in the pilchard and mackerel fishery.

From Project Gutenberg

The pilchard fishery begins as early as June or July; but then it is further out to sea, sometimes twenty miles out.

From Project Gutenberg

Ruins of the so-called "fish palaces" testify to the failure of the pilchard fishery in the 18th century.

From Project Gutenberg

Next evening, as half-past eight was striking, he was at his customary post by the river, above the "Dog and Pilchard."

From Project Gutenberg

The pilchard fishery is practically at its best directly off the Quiberon peninsula, opposite Lorient and Concarneau.

From Project Gutenberg