Catfish

Catfish refers to a group of ray-finned fish known for their whisker-like barbels around the mouth, which resemble cat whiskers. They inhabit freshwater and some brackish environments across the globe. Additionally, 'catfishing' is a modern slang term for the deceptive practice of creating a false identity online to lure others into a relationship or social interaction.

Catfish meaning with examples

• During our fishing trip, we were excited to catch a catfish, renowned for its firm, white flesh and unique flavor, making it a popular dish in Southern cuisine like catfish fry or gumbo. The thrill of reeling in such a sizeable fish added to the enjoyment of our day on the lake's calm waters.
• I learned about catfishing while browsing social media; it’s when someone pretends to be someone they’re not to gain people's trust and deceive them. It can be particularly harmful emotionally and psychologically, as those being catfished may fall in love without realizing they’re connected only to a fabricated identity.
• My grandfather often tells stories about his youth, when spearfishing for catfish was a popular pastime. He reminisces about the thrill of spotting a large fish hiding under debris and how that careful patience often led to catching the biggest catfish of the day.
• In the cooking class, we prepared a delicious catfish dish complete with a spicy cornmeal coating. The instructor emphasized the importance of marinating the fish overnight to enhance its flavors, which made for a dish that resonated with the essence of Southern culinary traditions.
• After hearing the term 'catfished,' I became curious about its origins. I discovered that it relates to the idea of catfish being placed in shipping containers with cod to keep the latter active during transport, ultimately leading to a metaphor for online deception.