anchovy

noun

an·​cho·​vy ˈan-ˌchō-vē 

an-ˈchō-vē

plural anchovies or anchovy

: any of a family (Engraulidae) of small fishes resembling herrings that includes several (such as Engraulis encrasicolus) that are important food fishes used especially in appetizers, as a garnish, and for making sauces and relishes

Examples of anchovy in a Sentence

a salad topped with garlic and anchovies

Recent Examples on the Web

Give your appetizer spread a refresh with this no-cook dip made with canned chickpeas, tuna, lemon juice, anchovies, red onion, and parsley. — Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 23 July 2026

Llerandi remembers one supplier in northern Spain arguing with her that serving size of anchovies was so subjective. — Paula De La Cruz, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026

Try it anywhere you might be tempted to use an anchovy or two, in dressings and sauces, braises, or, frankly, any dish involving seafood. — Chris Morocco, Bon Appetit Magazine, 17 July 2026

Just make sure to use vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, as regular versions contain anchovies. — Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 17 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Spanish anchova

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for anchovy

• clove
• novae
• supernovae

Kids Definition

anchovy

noun

an·​cho·​vy ˈan-ˌchō-vē 

an-ˈchō-vē

plural anchovies or anchovy

: any of numerous small fishes resembling herrings that include several that are important food fishes used especially for sauces and relishes