What is an old french term for big catfish?

There isn't a single, universally accepted old French term for a big catfish. However, here are some possibilities based on the historical context and linguistic evolution:

Possible Terms:

* "Gros silure" (literally "big catfish") would be the most straightforward and likely term used throughout history.

* "Silure géant" (giant catfish) would be used for exceptionally large specimens.

* "Silure monstrueux" (monstrous catfish) would be used for legendary or very large catfish, especially those considered dangerous.

Historical Context:

* Medieval French: The term "silure" was likely already used during this period.

* 16th-18th Centuries: As fishing and natural history evolved, more specific terms might have emerged depending on the region and species of catfish.

* Modern French: The term "silure" remains the standard term for catfish in modern French, and "gros silure" is used for larger specimens.

Additional Considerations:

* Regional Variations: Different regions in France might have used specific terms for large catfish.

* Species: Some species of catfish were more common in specific regions, leading to localized terms.

**To find a truly old French term, you would need to consult:

* Old French dictionaries and texts.

* Historical fishing records.

* Regional dialect studies.

Let me know if you have any other questions.