labahita
labahíta with stress marks
surgeon fish
Usage Note
Labahita refers to the surgeonfish or tang, a reef fish named for the sharp spine near its tail that resembles a scalpel (labaha). It is a common species in Philippine coastal waters and is both a food fish sold in local markets and a popular aquarium fish. The name reflects traditional Filipino naming practices tied to physical characteristics.
Examples
" Masarap ang piniritong labahita. "
Natural Translation
The fried surgeonfish is delicious.
Literal Translation
Delicious the fried surgeonfish.
" Masustansya ang labahita na niluto ng nanay. "
Natural Translation
The surgeonfish that Mom cooked is nutritious.
Literal Translation
Nutritious the surgeonfish that cooked the mother.
" Tuwing umaga, naghahanap si Tatay ng sariwang labahita sa palengke para ipritong ulam namin sa tanghalian. "
Natural Translation
Every morning, Dad looks for fresh surgeonfish at the market so we can fry it as our lunch dish.
Literal Translation
Every morning, looking Dad for fresh surgeonfish at-the market so fry-as dish ours at lunch.
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