† ˈsmerlinObs. [ad. G. schmerling. Cf.Da.smer-, Sw.smärling.] A loach or groundling. [1617Moryson Itin. iii. 81 They have one most delicate kinde, called Smerling, which in Prussen I did eate.]1668Charleton Onomast. 157 Cobites Aculeata,..the Smerlin. [Hence in Ainsworth (1736) and later Dicts.]