What is "tomcod"

Cod \Cod\, n. [Cf. G. gadde, and (in Heligoland) gadden, L. gadus merlangus.] (Zo["o]l.) An important edible fish ( Gadus morrhua), taken in immense numbers on the northern coasts of Europe and America. It is especially abundant and large on the Grand Bank of Newfoundland. It is salted and dried in large quantities.

Note: There are several varieties; as shore cod, from shallow water; bank cod, from the distant banks; and rock cod, which is found among ledges, and is often dark brown or mottled with red. The tomcod is a distinct species of small size. The bastard, blue, buffalo, or cultus cod of the Pacific coast belongs to a distinct family. See Buffalo cod, under Buffalo.

Cod fishery, the business of fishing for cod.

Cod line, an eighteen-thread line used in catching codfish.
--McElrath. [1913 Webster] ||

n. 1 A species of edible cod found in the Atlantic, (taxlink Microgadus tomcod species noshow=1). 2 (taxlink Microgadus proximus species noshow=1), found in the Pacific. 3 A kingfish. 4 A jack (fish).