Buffalofish

/ˈbɑfəloʊˌfɪʃ/ noun

Definition

A large freshwater fish found in North America, named for its appearance and size rather than any real connection to buffalo.

Etymology

Compound word combining 'buffalo' and 'fish'. The name comes from 19th-century American fishermen who called it 'buffalofish' because of its large, robust appearance resembling the buffalo.

Kelly Says

Despite its name, buffalofish aren't related to buffalo at all—they're actually suckers, a completely different fish family. It's a perfect example of how common names mislead: they describe what something looks like, not what it actually is.

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