swordfish

American  

[sawrd-fish, sohrd-] / ˈsɔrdˌfɪʃ, ˈsoʊrd- /

noun

swordfishes, plural swordfish plural

1. a large, marine food fish, Xiphias gladius, having the upper jaw elongated into a swordlike structure.

2. Astronomy. Swordfish, the constellation Dorado.

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swordfish British  

/ ˈsɔːdˌfɪʃ /

noun

1. a large scombroid fish, Xiphias gladius, with a very long upper jaw: valued as a food and game fish: family Xiphiidae

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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• swordfish
  plural
• swordfishes
  plural

Etymology

Origin of swordfish

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English; see origin at sword, fish

Example Sentences

R Doradus is a red giant star located about 180 light years from Earth in the southern constellation Dorado, also known as the Swordfish.

From Science Daily • Jan. 12, 2026

Throughout the evening, responding units, including the 87-foot Coast Guard Cutter Swordfish, were working to ensure no other vessels were traveling through the affected area, according to Petty Officer Michael Clark.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 14, 2022

Mr Moffat and his crew took off in his Swordfish L9726 from the deck of Ark Royal and headed for the Bismarck, fighting against driving rain, low cloud and a gale.

From BBC • Dec. 12, 2016

Swordfish with tomatoes and fennel: Dinner doesn't get much easier — or better — than swordfish steaks.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 7, 2015

Certainly the captain of the Swordfish did not, intent as he was on finally spearing something with his ungainly fat sword.

From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin