pilchard

[ pil-cherd ]

noun

1. a small, southern European, marine fish, Sardina pilchardus, related to the herring but smaller and rounder.
2. any of several related fishes, as Sardinops caeruleus, common off the California coast.

pilchard

/ ˈpɪltʃəd /

noun

1. a European food fish, Sardina (or Clupea ) pilchardus, with a rounded body covered with large scales: family Clupeidae (herrings)
2. a related fish, Sardinops neopilchardus , of S Australian waters

Word History and Origins

Origin of pilchard¹

First recorded in 1520–30; earlier pilcher; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of pilchard¹

C16: pylcher, of obscure origin

Example Sentences

As well as the bread and jam, cheeky Reg also brought a can of pilchards.

From BBC

Others say a tribute to the local pilchard industry and not pirates would be more appropriate.

From BBC

Layer the veg and herbs on the toasted pitta then open a can of pilchards in tomato sauce.

From The Guardian

He’d be baiting one hook after another with pilchards, suggesting where customers should cast for optimal chance of pulling in that trophy redfish, or at least that evening’s entrée.

From Washington Times

Lifelong fishermen report the virtual disappearance of baitfish such as anchovies and pilchards.

From The Guardian