Cod is a type of large, white‑fleshed fish that lives in cold ocean waters and is commonly eaten as food. It is often used in dishes like fish and chips.
“Cod” comes from Middle English “codde,” possibly related to words meaning “bag” or “pouch,” maybe referring to the fish’s shape or its swim bladder. The exact origin is uncertain, but it is a long‑standing English word.
The name may connect to old words for “bag,” which is darkly funny because English also once used “cod” as slang for a man’s testicles. So the humble codfish swims through history tangled up with some very human imagery.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.