Synonyms for

Herring

Verb / ˈherɪŋ / Another word for herring — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a small, oily fish that is often eaten smoked or pickled

Synonyms & similar words

clupeaharangus sardine anchovy mackerel trout salmon cod tuna pike bass perch catfish halibut smelt whitefish shad eel flounder haddock sole sturgeon

Synonyms by register

Formal

Clupea harengus sardine pilchard

Informal

sardine sprat kipper

Literary

silver fish ocean jewel schooling fish

Antonyms

land-dweller mammal bird terrestrial animal non-fish air-breather

Common collocations

  • smoked herring
  • pickled herring
  • red herring
  • school of herring
  • fresh herring
  • canned herring
  • herringbone pattern

Word family

noun herring

Usage note

While 'herring' refers to a specific type of fish, 'red herring' is an idiom meaning a misleading clue or distraction. 'Sardine' and 'pilchard' can sometimes be used interchangeably with herring, though they are distinct species.

Example sentences

  1. I caught a herring while fishing with my grandpa.
  2. Mom bought some smoked herring for our picnic.
  3. The fishermen unloaded a huge haul of herring at the dock.
  4. I can't stand the smell of pickled herring.
  5. Herring is a popular food in many Scandinavian countries.

Quotes

  • 'A herring,' he said at last, 'is a more spiritual fish than salmon.' - John Galsworthy
  • 'The great sea has set me in motion, set me adrift, moving me like a weed in a river. The sky and strong wind have moved the spirit inside me till I am carried away trembling with joy.' - Uvavnuk (Inuit poet)
  • 'The moon was a ghostly galleon tossed upon cloudy seas.' - Alfred Noyes

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