grilse

[ grils ]

noun

, plural grils·es, (especially collectively) grilse.

1. a young Atlantic salmon as it returns from the sea to fresh water for the first time.

grilse

/ ɡrɪls /

noun

1. a young salmon that returns to fresh water after one winter in the sea

Word History and Origins

Origin of grilse¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English grills, grilles (plural); further origin unknown

Word History and Origins

Origin of grilse¹

C15 grilles (plural), of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

They are now promoted to the name of grilse, and attain the rank of salmon on their second and all subsequent migrations.

From Project Gutenberg

All my line had been taken out, the gut collar had been snapped, and the fly had undoubtedly been carried off by the grilse.

From Project Gutenberg

I then stopped, and, lengthening my line at each successive “throw,” sent my fly nearer and still nearer to the grilse.

From Project Gutenberg

But there was still a grilse that rose to a big March brown in the shrunken stream below Elibank.

From Project Gutenberg

In this way not only are large trout often taken in a flood, but sea trout, grilse, and sometimes salmon.

From Project Gutenberg