sardine

noun

sar·​dine sär-ˈdēn 

plural sardines also sardine

1

: any of several small or immature fishes of the herring family

especially : the European pilchard (Sardina pilchardus) especially when young and of a size suitable for preserving for food

2

: any of various small fishes (such as an anchovy) resembling the true sardines or similarly preserved for food

Examples of sardine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The penguins’ staple prey of sardines and anchovies are being pulled out of the ocean in great quantities for animal feed. —Philip Lymbery and Leticia Carvalho, TIME, 7 June 2024

However, fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and herring are better for heart health than just using supplements, Beal added. —Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 4 June 2024

Fatty Fish Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines, are foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids. —Amanda MacMillan, Health, 1 June 2024

During World War I, they were seen as competitors for the sardines needed to feed troops, so were shot by fishermen. —Lisa M. Krieger, The Mercury News, 29 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English sardeine, from Anglo-French, from Latin sardina

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

sardine

noun

sar·​dine sär-ˈdēn 

plural sardines also sardine

: any of various young or very small fish often preserved in oil for food