fishing line

noun

: a long line or cord attached to a hook and used for fishing

also : the type of line designed for this purpose

a length of fishing line

—used specifically for a strong, usually monofilament cord made from a polymer (such as nylon or Dacron)

… is held firm in the pot by plaster of paris and covered with sphagnum moss bound with clear fishing line.

—Patricia Leigh Brown

Just about any string, cord or thread will do for a kite line, but because the best line supplied adequate strength with minimal wind resistance and weight, a thin, strong line is clearly better than a thick, weak one. Monofilament fishing line has both qualities, but many kiters shun it for the same reason fishermen curse it: it gets hopelessly tangled up in itself.

—Robert Kimber

Examples of fishing line in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Volunteers can adopt a fishing line recovery bin in their area. —Joe Rassel, Orlando Sentinel, 18 July 2024

Another theory: The orcas want vengeance for the threat of entanglement with fishing lines. —Naomi Schanen, Washington Post, 11 July 2024

The department notes that unattended fishing lines, like trotlines, setlines and floatlines, can ensnare turtles and are a leading cause of harm and death. —Natalie Wallington, Kansas City Star, 15 June 2024

Volunteers needed to recover fishing line: Volusia County needs environmentally minded volunteers to participate in the Monofilament Recovery and Recycling Program. —Joe Rassel, Orlando Sentinel, 3 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above