red mullet

noun

: goatfish
especially : either of two red or reddish food fishes (Mullus surmuletus and M. barbatus) of the Mediterranean Sea and the warmer Atlantic coasts of Europe and northern Africa that are noted for their ability to change color

Examples of red mullet in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The flowing red mullet gets the attention. Mike Defabo, New York Times, 26 June 2026 Some of the country’s most traditional dishes, from croquettes to red mullet fish to eggplant and squid, are fried in extra virgin olive oil. Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Feb. 2026 Bathed in lavender and gold tones, the establishment is known for its incredible attention to sauces served over dishes like red mullet fillet with crispy scales and saffron sauce. Adam H. Graham, AFAR Media, 10 Feb. 2025 Displayed on ice is the day’s catch, which might be pretty red mullet, fat scampi, John Dory, branzino and more, all grilled to perfection and served with French fries. John Mariani, Forbes.com, 9 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for red mullet

Word History

First Known Use

1761, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of red mullet was in 1761

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Cite this Entry

“Red mullet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/red%20mullet. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

red mullet

noun
: either of two red or reddish goatfishes of warm seas that are used as food
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