sardine
UK: sɑːˈdiːn | US: sɑːrˈdiːn
n. a small, oily fish of the herring family, often canned for food
n. (informal) a person crowded into a confined space
The word "sardine" traces back to the Latin "sardina," derived from "Sarda," the ancient name for the island of Sardinia. The fish was abundant in the waters around Sardinia, and its name became associated with the region. The suffix "-ine" (from Latin "-ina") denotes relation or origin, forming nouns. Over time, "sardine" generalized to refer to small, oily fish beyond those specifically from Sardinia. The informal usage ("crowded like sardines") emerged in the early 20th century, referencing the tight packing of canned sardines.
We opened a tin of sardines for a quick lunch.
The subway was so packed we were squeezed like sardines.
Sardines are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Fishermen caught a large school of sardines off the coast.
She prefers sardines on toast as a simple snack.