shark

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a mostly marine fish with a cartilaginous skeleton, rough skin, and several rows of teeth

   A reef shark glided beneath the divers without approaching them.

2. 2
   noun

   informal and disapproving: a dishonest or ruthless person who exploits others

   The landlord was a shark who exploited tenants with hidden fees.

3. 3
   noun

   informal: a person who is exceptionally skilled at a game or activity

   By sixteen, she was already a shark at tournament chess.

The fish name is attested in Middle English, but its origin is uncertain. The separate figurative word for an exploitative person probably reflects German Schurke 'scoundrel'; the later 'expert' sense developed from that noun.

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