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

Stirred with a little garlic, butter and fishy bonito flakes, everything but the skin of the squash is served with the cavatelli and topped with anchovies, lemon zest and drizzled herb oil that add acidity and fragrance to the savory sauce. —Miguel Otárola, Denver Post, 12 Aug. 2025

From cod liver oil to anchovies, there are plenty of shelf-stable foods that pack similar amounts of omega-3s as salmon. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 6 Aug. 2025

Expert Pick: King Oscar Anchovies are packed in heart-healthy olive oil and only contain three ingredients: anchovies, olive oil, and salt. —Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 24 July 2025

The global krill market is expected to grow substantially over the next 10 years as an alternative to fish oil, according to data from Allied Market Research, as people seek the benefits that are abundant in fish like salmon, sardines, mackerel and anchovies. —Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 10 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

Spanish anchova

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for anchovy

• 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