Fishing

Definition

Fishing is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to the activity of catching fish, typically for food, sport, or commerce. As a verb, it describes the act of attempting to catch fish using tools like nets, hooks, or traps.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb (present participle of "fish")

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɪʃɪŋ/
• Respelling: FISH-ing

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɪʃɪŋ/
• Respelling: FISH-ing

Etymology

The word "fishing" originates from the Old English "fiscian," meaning "to catch fish," derived from Proto-Germanic "*fiskōną" and Proto-Indo-European "*peisk-," meaning "fish." The term has been used since the early medieval period to denote the practice of catching aquatic animals.

Derivatives

• Fisher (noun)
• Fisherman (noun)
• Fishery (noun)
• Fishing line (noun)
• Overfishing (noun)

Synonyms

• Angling
• Catching
• Trapping

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "fishing" is widely used to describe the act of catching fish for leisure, sustenance, or industry. For example, "He enjoys fishing by the river on weekends," or "Commercial fishing is vital for the economy."

Related Terms

• Angling: The use of a rod, line, and hook to catch fish.
• Fishery: A place or industry involved in the cultivation or catching of fish.
• Netting: The use of nets to catch aquatic creatures.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act or practice of catching fish: Refers to the activity of attempting to capture fish, whether recreationally or commercially.
  • Example: "Fishing is an essential livelihood for many coastal communities."
• A recreational activity or sport: Describes fishing as a hobby or competitive sport.
  • Example: "He participated in a fishing tournament."

Verb (present participle of 'fish')

• To catch or attempt to catch fish: Indicates the act of engaging in fishing.
  • Example: "They are fishing in the lake for trout."
• To search for or attempt to obtain something: Used metaphorically to describe searching or seeking.
  • Example: "She was fishing for compliments."