Demihake

/ˈdɛmɪheɪk/ noun

Definition

A type of fish that is smaller than or related to a hake, or a hake of lesser quality or size.

Etymology

From 'demi-' (half) + 'hake,' which comes from Middle English 'hake,' possibly from Old Norse 'hakell.' Hake is a common white fish; a demihake suggests either a smaller variety or juvenile form.

Kelly Says

Medieval fishmongers had incredibly specific names for different fish sizes and qualities—a demihake would've been worth distinctly different amounts of money depending on its exact size, showing how specialized medieval commerce really was.

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