anchovy

noun

an·​cho·​vy ˈan-ˌchō-vē How to pronounce anchovy (audio)
an-ˈchō-vē
plural anchovies or anchovy
: any of a family (Engraulidae) of small fishes resembling herrings that includes several (such as Engraulis encrasicholus) 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 The penguins’ staple prey of sardines and anchovies are being pulled out of the ocean in great quantities for animal feed. Philip Lymbery and Leticia Carvalho, TIME, 7 June 2024 Pizzas include the Margherita and Pizza Alla Puttanesca (capers, olives, red onions and anchovies). Jenna Thompson, Kansas City Star, 31 May 2024 Now the focus is on the northern anchovy, the primary food of pelicans. Lisa M. Krieger, The Mercury News, 29 May 2024 In a small bowl, combine olives, olive oil, lemon juice and zest, capers, anchovy, and garlic. David Tanis, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for anchovy 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'anchovy.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Spanish anchova

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of anchovy was in 1582

Dictionary Entries Near anchovy

Cite this Entry

“Anchovy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anchovy. Accessed 12 Jun. 2024.

Kids Definition

anchovy

noun
an·​cho·​vy ˈan-ˌchō-vē How to pronounce anchovy (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on anchovy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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