Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

alewife

Noun
/ˈeɪlˌwaɪf/
Definition
A small fish of the herring family, typically found in North America, known for its distinctive silvery scales and importance as a food source for larger fish.
Examples
  • The alewife is commonly used as bait for larger sport fish.
  • Many lakes in North America teem with alewife populations during the summer months.
  • After years of decline, the alewife is now making a comeback in various rivers.
Meaning
The alewife is a species of fish that is often found in freshwater and saltwater bodies. It is recognized for its ability to migrate between these environments and is a crucial part of the aquatic food chain.
Synonyms
  • Herring
  • Clupeid