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fishing

n.
US //ˈfɪʃɪŋ// UK //fˈɪʃɪŋ// fish·ing
  1. 1 the activity (n.)
    A2 Elementary Sport

    the sport or hobby of catching fish.

    the recreational activity of catching fish, typically using a rod, line, and hook.

    Example

    He spent the whole afternoon fishing by the quiet river, but he didn't catch anything.

    Example

    Recreational fishing remains a popular pastime in the lake district, providing both relaxation and a connection to the natural environment.

    Usage

    Often follows the verb 'go' without a preposition.
    • angling
    Pitfall
    We went to fishing last weekend.
    We went fishing last weekend.

    When using 'go' with activities ending in -ing, do not use the preposition 'to'.

  2. 2 the industry (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the business of catching fish and other seafood to sell.

    the commercial industry or business of harvesting fish and other seafood for profit.

    Example

    The local economy depends heavily on deep-sea fishing and tourism.

    Example

    Commercial fishing regulations have become increasingly strict to prevent the depletion of tuna stocks in the North Atlantic.

    Usage

    Usually uncountable when referring to the industry as a whole.
Etymology 1

From Middle English fischynge, equivalent to fish + -ing.

Etymology 2

From fish + -ing.

Idioms3 entries

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