paradise fish

American  

noun

1. any small freshwater fish of the genus Macropodus, of southeastern Asia, often kept in aquariums.

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paradise fish British  

noun

1. any of several beautifully coloured labyrinth fishes of the genus Macropodus, esp M. opercularis, of S and SE Asia

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Etymology

Origin of paradise fish

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

After he shut the door and settled down to his paradise fish on that first Tuesday in May, Hedger forgot all about his new neighbour.

From Youth and the Bright Medusa by Cather, Willa Sibert

Among the fishes in the first four cases, the visitor should notice the flying gurnards; the sea scorpions, and flying sea scorpions; the paradise fish; and the perches, including the fingered variety.

From How to See the British Museum in Four Visits by Jerrold, W. Blanchard

He was absorbed in a study of paradise fish at the Aquarium, staring out at people through the glass and green water of their tank.

From Youth and the Bright Medusa by Cather, Willa Sibert