Carassius auratus

Goldfish Gold"fish`, n. (Zo["o]l.) (a) A small domesticated cyprinoid fish ({Carassius auratus}); -- so named from its color. It is a native of China, and is said to have been introduced into Europe in 1691. It is often kept as an ornament, in small ponds or glass globes. Many varieties are known. Called also {golden fish}, and {golden carp}. See {Telescope fish}, under {Telescope}. (b) A California marine fish of an orange or red color; the garibaldi. [1913 Webster]