DCHP-3

dun ((n.))

Nfld
DCHP-1 (pre-1967)

Spelling variants:
dun fish

Entry from the DCHP-1 (pre-1967)

This entry may contain outdated or offensive information, terms, and examples.

n.

an inferior grade of cured codfish, soft and dingy brown.

Quotations

1819
Some people prefer this dun fish for present use; but it will not stand the voyage.
1840
There remain the dunfish and others discoloured, broken, and otherwise damaged, which nevertheless may be as fit as others for immediate consumption, to which they are therefore applied.
1883
When thoroughly dried [cod] have a whitish appearance and are then ready for storing. In due time they reach the merchant's wharf or store, where they are weighed and "culled" or sorted into four different kinds called Merchantable (the best), Madiera, West India (intended for the consumption of the Negroes) and Dun, or broken fish, which will not keep, and is intended for home use.