English Reference
noun

fishing

n.
US /ˈfɪʃɪŋ/ UK /fˈɪʃɪŋ/ fish·ing UK spelling fishings

  1. 01 A2 Elementary Sport

    the sport or hobby of catching fish.

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

    Simple

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

    In context

    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.

    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. 02 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.

    Simple

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

    In context

    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.

    fisherytrawling

Usage fishing communities · fishing grounds


Etymology 1

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

Etymology 2

From fish + -ing.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Middle English fischynge
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated