Definition

A type of freshwater fish found in eastern North America, known for its large head and whisker-like appendages.

Example

We caught a hornpout while fishing in the lake yesterday.

Conversation

Have you ever caught a hornpout before?

Yeah, I caught one last summer!

They have such a unique look with those barbels.

I know, right? They're pretty fun to fish for!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hornpout is derived from the word 'horn' (from Old English 'horn', meaning a hard, pointed projection) and 'pout' (from Middle English 'pout', meaning a type of fish, specifically a catfish). The term refers to a catfish that has horn-like projections on its head.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'horn' as the hard projections on the fish's head and 'pout' as a type of fish — that's why hornpout refers to a catfish with horn-like features.

Visually Confused Words