nannygai

Dictionary of Australasian Words Phrases and Usages by Edward E. Morris

n.


aboriginal name for an Australianfish, Beryx affinis, Gunth.

1882. Rev. J. E. Tenison-Woods, `Fish of New South Wales,'p. 52:

«Amongst the early colonists it used also to be called `mothernan a di,' probably a corruption of the native name, mura ngina gai.»

1884. E. P. Ramsay, `Fisheries Exhibition Literature,' vol. v.p. 308:

«Known among the fishermen of Port Jackson as the `nannagai,'or as it is sometimes spelt `nannygy.' It is a most deliciousfish, always brings a high price, but is seldom found insufficient numbers.»