n.
Function: intransitive verb
Date: before 12th century
1 : to attempt to catch fish
2 : to seek something by roundabout means < fish ing for a compliment>
3 a : to search for something underwater < fish for pearls> b : to engage in a search by groping or feeling < fish ing around in her purse for her keys>
transitive verb
1 a : to try to catch fish in b : to fish with : use (as a boat, net, or bait) in fishing
2 a : to go fishing for < fish salmon> b : to pull or draw as if fishing < fish ed the ball from under the car> < fish wires through a conduit>
– fish · abil · i · ty \ ˌ fi-sh ə - ' bi-l ə -t ē \ noun
– fish · able \ ' fi-sh ə -b ə l \ adjective
– fish or cut bait : to make a choice between alternatives