noun
carp
KARP/kɑːrp/
A large freshwater fish often found in ponds and rivers.
A large carp moves slowly through the murky pond water.
Etymology
Carpe already named the same freshwater fish, so no change of meaning is needed. Its name is traced to a Germanic source, and the Danube fish was later introduced into English ponds.
In context
“Bethink you of the pike in the carp pond!” The Abbot hardened his heart at the thought. “It was indeed a devil’s deed—when we had but newly stocked it with char and with carp.
More examples
- Several carp gather beneath the wooden bridge.
- The angler releases the carp back into the river.
- The pond supports several kinds of carps.
Forms
carp · carps
Similar words
- goldfish
- A smaller related fish often kept ornamentally.
- catfish
- A different freshwater fish distinguished by its barbels and scaleless skin.