Fishing
/ˈfɪʃɪŋ/
Definitions
3 meaningsThe sport or activity of catching fish.
/ˈfɪʃɪŋ/
The activity of catching fish.
Fishing is a relaxing pastime for many people.
💡 Simply: Fishing is like going on a treasure hunt in the water! You use a special tool, a fishing rod, to try to catch fish. It’s fun to sit by the water, relax, and see what you can find.
👶 For kids: Fishing is trying to catch fish using a hook and a line!
More Examples
She spent the whole afternoon fishing at the river.
The fishing season opens in May.
How It's Used
"He enjoys fishing in the lake on weekends."
"Fishing is a popular recreational activity."
The act of catching fish using a rod and line or net.
/ˈfɪʃɪŋ/
The action of catching fish.
The boys are fishing in the creek.
💡 Simply: When you're fishing, you're actively trying to catch fish! It's the 'doing' part of the activity. For example, 'He's fishing right now, hoping to catch a big one!'
👶 For kids: When you're fishing, you're trying to catch fish!
More Examples
She was fishing for trout all morning.
He enjoys fishing from the pier.
How It's Used
"He is fishing in the river right now."
To attempt to get information or a response from someone by indirect questioning or suggestion.
/ˈfɪʃɪŋ/
Attempting to elicit information or a reaction.
She was fishing for compliments about her new dress.
💡 Simply: Sometimes, when you ask a question to someone, it’s like fishing! You're trying to “catch” their answer, reaction, or even a little bit of information. For example, “She was fishing for a date by mentioning her free weekend.”
👶 For kids: Sometimes, when you try to get someone to tell you something, it's like fishing for an answer!
More Examples
The journalist was fishing for details about the scandal.
He was fishing for a confession, but she remained silent.
How It's Used
"He was fishing for compliments."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
fishing rod
A long, flexible pole used for catching fish.
"He packed his fishing rod and tackle box for the trip."
go fishing
To engage in the act of catching fish.
"They decided to go fishing at the lake."
fishing expedition
An exploratory search for information, especially one that is not likely to be successful.
"The investigation was criticized as a fishing expedition, with little basis for the claims."
From Middle English *fisshinge*, from Old English fiscian ('to fish'), from fisc ('fish').
The term fishing has been used since Old English times, reflecting the importance of catching fish for food and recreation.
Memory tip
Think of the hook and line.
Word Origin
"fisc (fish)"