Search
Select the dictionary language
any of the order of North American freshwater fish that are distinguished by having barbels and no scales
What is a "catfish"?
Catfish refers to a diverse group of freshwater and saltwater fish species known for their distinctive barbels, which resemble a cat's whiskers. These bottom-dwelling fish have flattened heads, scaleless bodies, and a variety of sizes and colors. Catfish are renowned for their excellent sensory abilities, aided by their barbels, which help them locate food even in murky waters. They are predominantly nocturnal and feed on a wide range of prey, including smaller fish, insects, crustaceans, and plant matter. Catfish are highly adaptable and can be found in various aquatic habitats, including rivers, lakes, and swamps. They are popular among anglers due to their size, strength, and tasty flesh. Catfish are also important in aquaculture, where they are farmed for their meat, making them a significant food source for many communities worldwide.
flesh of scaleless food fish of the southern United States; often farmed
a person who creates a fake online identity to deceive others, often in dating or social media contexts
What does "catfish" mean in online deception slang?
The term "catfish" describes a person who creates a fake online identity to deceive others, typically in dating or social media contexts. The structure comes from the documentary Catfish, which popularized the behavior, and the metaphor of being "hooked" into a false identity. It is informal slang used to label intentional online impersonation or identity fraud used for emotional, social, or romantic manipulation.
