Salmon
/ˈsælmən/noun
A type of fish known for its pink flesh and migratory habits.
Did you know?In ancient times, salmon were revered as symbols of wisdom and transformation, often associated with mystical journeys in Celtic mythology.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*sal-
“To leap; to jump, reflecting the fish's remarkable swimming ability.”
Latin
Latin
salmo
“Referring to the fish, often associated with the act of leaping.”
Old French
Old French
salmon
“Adopted from Latin, used to denote the fish.”
Middle English
Middle English
salmon
“The term for the fish as it entered English vernacular.”
Modern English
English
salmon
“Referring to the fish, maintaining its original association with leaping and transformation.”
Explore more surprising origins