An alternative spelling or variant of a type of small fish, possibly a smelt or related species from European waters.
From French 'éperlan,' ultimately from Old Norse or Germanic sources. The term was used historically to describe small fish caught in European rivers and coasts.
Different languages named the same fish different ways, and 'epelan' survives in old English texts as one of those names—it's a reminder that fishing traditions have ancient roots!
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.