The members of the family vary greatly in form, from elongated and streamlined to very deep-bodied and thin from side to side. In general, however, they bear the following features in common: two dorsal fins, the first of which may be reduced to a few small spines; anal and second dorsal fins usually high in front; first two anal spines separated from the third; pectoral fins slim and often sickle-shaped; tail base very slender; tail strong, either forked or crescent-shaped; scales small; and a lateral line (a series of small sense organs along the sides of the body) often partly or wholly covered with large, hard, keeled scales (scutes).

Many of the carangids are small, but some grow to a large size. The greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili), for example, reaches a length and weight of about 1.8 m (6 feet) and 70 kg (150 pounds). The members of the family are known by various common names. There are the moonfish, pompano, pilot fish, runner, jack (qq.v.), and others. One of the most unusual-looking carangids is the lookdown (Selene vomer), with an exceptionally thin body and high “forehead.” The first rays of the second dorsal fin extend into filaments that reach to the tail. Many of these fishes are valued for food or sport. Certain species, however, such as the greater amberjack and several jacks, may at times carry a toxic substance in their flesh and, when eaten, cause ciguatera, a form of poisoning.