1. Plural of longliner; fishing vessels that use longlines (long fishing lines with many baited hooks) to catch fish such as tuna, swordfish, or cod.
Usage: nautical; commercial fishing
2. Plural of longliner; fishermen or crew members who work on longlining vessels.
Usage: nautical; commercial fishing

Examples

• The fleet of longliners departed at dawn to fish the deep waters off the coast.
• Modern longliners are equipped with GPS and electronic fish-finding equipment.
• Environmental groups have raised concerns about the impact of longliners on sea turtles and seabirds.
• The experienced longliners knew exactly where to set their lines for the best catch.
• Several longliners reported a successful season with record tuna hauls.
• Regulations now require longliners to use circle hooks to reduce bycatch.