swordfish

Imagine diving into the deep blue ocean and seeing a sleek fish with a long, flat bill stretching out from its head like a blade. This is the swordfish (Xiphias gladius), named for that striking feature. Although many people picture it spearing its prey, it more often uses the bill to slash or strike, making it easier to catch fish and squid while moving at great speed.

Swordfish are top predators in their environment. They hunt squid, mackerel, and other fish in warm and temperate waters around the world. These fish are usually solitary and can grow very large, with some reaching more than 14 feet in length and weighing over 1,400 pounds.

Swordfish are also important as food. Their firm, meaty flesh is valued in many cuisines, and people often grill, sear, or slice it for raw dishes such as sashimi.

In the past, some populations were harmed by overfishing, so sustainable fishing has become an important part of how people manage them. The word can refer both to the animal itself and to its meat when it appears on a menu, which is why it belongs both in nature writing and in everyday food vocabulary.