Pronunciation: [ɡˈɜːnɑːd] (IPA) 
The word "gurnard" is spelled as /ˈɡɜrnərd/ in IPA phonetic transcription. This word is often used to refer to a type of fish found in the coastal waters of the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. The spelling of "gurnard" is derived from the Old French word "gornard," which means "mudfish." The pronunciation of this word starts with a voiced velar nasal sound followed by an unstressed "er" and ends with a voiced alveolar plosive.
Gurnard is a noun that refers to a type of marine fish belonging to the family Triglidae. These bottom-dwelling fish are characterized by their unique appearance and distinctive features. Gurnards are typically small to medium-sized, with most species growing to a maximum length of about 30-40 centimeters.
One of the defining characteristics of gurnards is their oversized pectoral fins, which are brightly colored with various hues of red, orange, and yellow. These fins are used by the fish to "walk" along the seabed, employing a unique method of locomotion known as "crutching." Gurnards are also known for their large, heavy, and bony heads, which often possess spines and armored plates.
These fish are primarily found in the coastal waters of the Atlantic and Mediterranean regions, where they inhabit sandy or muddy seabeds at depths of up to 100 meters. Gurnards are carnivorous, feeding on a diverse diet of crustaceans, small fish, and other invertebrates.
Due to their firm and flavorful flesh, gurnards are often a prized catch for commercial and recreational fishing. They are also commonly used in culinary preparations, with their fillets being suitable for grilling, frying, or baking. In addition to their gastronomic value, gurnards also play a role in the marine ecosystem as prey for larger predatory fish.
A small sea-fish of several species with a rough bony skin-so called from the grunting sound the fish emits in certain circumstances; often spelt gurnet.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word gurnard is believed to have originated from Old Norse. It can be traced back to the Old Norse word gurnaðr, which means grunting, in reference to the grunting sound these fish make when they are caught or disturbed. Over time, the word evolved and was adopted into various languages, including Middle English, where it became gurnard.
