Pronunciation: [hˈe͡ɪks] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "hakes" can be a bit confusing for those unfamiliar with the IPA phonetic alphabet. This word is pronounced as "heɪks" in IPA transcription. The "h" sound at the beginning is followed by the "ay" dipthong, which represents the long "a" sound. Finally, the word ends with a voiceless "ks" sound, represented by "x" in the phonetic transcription. "Hakes" refers to a type of fish commonly found in the Atlantic ocean.
Hakes refer to a group of marine fish species belonging to the family Merlucciidae, which are commonly found in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. They are characterized by their elongated bodies and tapering tails. Typically, hakes have a silvery-gray or brownish coloration on their upper parts, while their bellies are usually lighter.
These fish are known for their important commercial value as a food source. They are widely harvested for human consumption due to their mild-tasting flesh, which is prized for its delicate and flaky texture. In culinary applications, hakes are often used in various dishes, including soups, stews, and as fillets. Their popularity is partly attributed to their ability to readily absorb flavors, making them a versatile ingredient in many cuisines.
Furthermore, hakes play a significant ecological role in marine ecosystems. As active predators, they mainly feed on smaller fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. By controlling the population of these prey species, hakes contribute to the overall balance and health of their ecosystems.
Hakes may also be referred to as "whiting," particularly in British dialects. In this context, the term can sometimes be used more broadly to describe other similar fish species. It is worth noting that there are multiple types of hakes, including the European hake (Merluccius merluccius) and the Pacific hake (Merluccius productus), each with their own specific characteristics and habitats.
The word "hakes" originated from Middle English "hake", which in turn derived from Old Norse "haki". In Old Norse, "haki" referred to a hook or a barb. Over time, the meaning of the word evolved, and today, "hakes" typically refers to a species of bottom-dwelling fish, particularly the European hake (Merluccius merluccius).
