fish-oil
UK[ˈfɪʃ ɔɪl]US[ˈfɪʃ ɔɪl]
n
Oil obtained from the bodies of fish, especially used as a dietary supplement rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Morpheme Breakdown
fish
oil
fish
aquatic animal
oil
viscous liquid
Etymology
The compound 'fish-oil' is a transparent combination of two ancient nouns describing its source and substance. The word 'fish' has a stable lineage from Proto-Germanic, denoting aquatic creatures caught for food. 'Oil' traces a Mediterranean journey from Greek elaion (olive oil) through Latin oleum to Old French, broadening from specifically olive oil to any fatty, viscous liquid. The modern term 'fish-oil' logically denotes oil rendered from fish, a meaning directly composed from its two constituent morphemes, reflecting its role as a nutritional supplement distinct from plant-based oils.
Analysis
Structure: fish (aquatic animal) + oil (viscous liquid)
fish: From Old English fisc, of Germanic origin; related to Dutch vis and German Fisch. Functions as the source noun.
oil: From Old French oile, from Latin oleum (olive oil, oil), from Greek elaion (olive oil). Functions as the substance noun.
Examples
Many people take fish-oil capsules for their heart health benefits.
The distinct smell in the kitchen came from the fish-oil supplement.
Research has shown that fish-oil can help reduce inflammation.