sailfish

noun

sail·​fish ˈsāl-ˌfish 

: any of a genus (Istiophorus, especially I. platypterus) of billfishes having a very large dorsal fin

Examples of sailfish in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Wild egrets stalk the shallows for tiddlers, while the nearby reef bustles with mantas, turtles, and sailfish. —Hazel Plush, Travel + Leisure, 7 July 2025

For a higher-octane experience, venture further afield aboard one of the resort’s two twin-engine game fishing boats (measuring 55 and 35 feet) in search of marlin, sailfish, and swordfish to catch and release. —Alexandra Kirkman, Robb Report, 29 May 2025

Cool temperatures offshore prompt migratory species such as sailfish to swim to South Florida. —Steve Waters, Miami Herald, 11 Jan. 2025

Meanwhile, sailfish and sea trout usually bite pretty well immediately after a cold front. —Steve Waters, Miami Herald, 11 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1879, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for sailfish

• bluefish
• catfish
• codfish
• crawfish
• dogfish
• finfish
• flatfish
• goldfish
• groundfish
• kingfish
• offish
• redfish

Kids Definition

sailfish

noun

sail·​fish -ˌfish 

: any of a genus of large sea fishes that are related to the swordfish and marlins and have long slender jaws and a very large fin like a sail on the back