herring
UK[ˈherɪŋ]US[ˈherɪŋ]
n
a long silver sea fish that swims in very large groups and is used for food.
Etymology
the word 'herring' originates from old english 'hǣring', a term of west germanic origin, related to old high german 'hāring'. its ultimate etymology is uncertain, though it may be connected to an old germanic root for 'grey' or 'hoary', a possible reference to the fish's distinctive silvery-grey coloration. the word has remained remarkably stable in form and meaning throughout its history in english, referring specifically to this important food fish. its journey from a common germanic descriptive term to the standard modern english name exemplifies the direct preservation of certain core vocabulary items.
Analysis
the word 'herring' is a simplex word of germanic origin. it does not break down into smaller, meaningful morphemes within modern english spelling.
Examples
the north sea is famous for its herring fisheries.
for breakfast, he had two kippers, which are smoked herrings.
a large shoal of herring was detected by the ship's sonar.