The English word "anchovy" is spelled as [ænˈtʃəvi] in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first sound [æ] is produced by opening the mouth wide and lowering the tongue to the bottom of the mouth. The sound [n] is nasal, and the tongue touches the alveolar ridge. The third sound [tʃ] is a voiceless postalveolar affricate, similar to the "ch" in "church". The [ə] represents the schwa sound, and the final sound [vi] is pronounced like the word "vee".
Anchovy refers to a small, oily, and saltwater fish belonging to the Engraulidae family. These fish are widely known for their strong aroma and distinct and intense flavor. Typically measuring about 2 to 4 inches in length, anchovies have a slender body with a silver-blue hue on their upper side fading into a paler silver shade on their belly. They are characterized by a prominent snout, large mouth filled with sharp teeth, and a single dorsal fin.
Anchovies are highly prevalent in the Mediterranean Sea, where they are caught in great abundance for both their flesh and their oil. Their pungent flavor makes them a favored ingredient in various cuisines worldwide. Often used in the preparation of sauces, dressings, and marinades, they add a savory umami taste to dishes. Additionally, anchovies are frequently utilized as toppings for pizzas, incorporated into salads, or served as appetizers by themselves.
Due to their small size and high fat content, anchovies are an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron, and selenium. Their nutritional value makes them a popular choice for individuals seeking a healthful diet.
In summary, anchovies are small, oily, saltwater fish with a distinct and intense flavor. They are used in various cuisines worldwide, adding a powerful umami taste to dishes. Their nutritional profile makes them a beneficial component of a balanced diet.
A small fish caught in vast numbers in the Mediterranean, used as a sauce.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word anchovy has an interesting etymology. It is derived from the Spanish word anchoa, which itself comes from the Arabic word al-luzubah. The term al-luzubah referred to a small herring-like fish commonly found in the Mediterranean Sea. Over time, the Arabic word was adopted and adapted by various languages, including Spanish, from where it entered the English language as anchovy.