Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Baleen Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‹
Add to dictionary

baleen

[bษ™หˆliหn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

whale anatomy

Baleen refers to the filter-feeding system found in some species of whales. Made of keratin, it consists of long, flat plates that hang from the upper jaws of the whale. Baleen whales, including blue and humpback whales, use this structure to sieve small prey like krill and plankton from the water. As they take in a large mouthful of water, they push it out through the baleen, trapping food particles inside. This unique adaptation allows these whales to thrive in their aquatic environments by efficiently harvesting abundant food resources.

Synonyms

filter, sieve.

Examples of usage

  • The blue whale uses its baleen to consume thousands of pounds of krill daily.
  • Humpback whales are known for their complex feeding techniques involving baleen.
  • Baleen plates can grow up to 3 meters long in some whale species.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Baleen plates can have up to 400 fringed plates in a single whale's mouth, forming a filter system.
  • Instead of teeth, baleen acts as a sieve, allowing animals to feed on krill and small fish while expelling water.
  • Baleen whales are known to consume up to 4 tons of food in a single day, thanks in part to their efficient filter feeding.

Ecology

  • Baleen whales play a vital role in ocean ecosystems by controlling prey populations and recycling nutrients.
  • Their feeding habits contribute to the health of marine life by helping to maintain balanced food webs.

Art and Culture

  • Historically, baleen was used by indigenous peoples and early settlers to create tools, ornaments, and other artifacts.
  • In the 19th century, it became a popular material for items like corsets and umbrella ribs due to its flexibility.

Conservation

  • Baleen whale populations were heavily affected by whaling in the 20th century, leading to significant declines.
  • Conservation efforts today focus on protecting these species from ship strikes, entanglements, and climate change impacts.

Origin of 'baleen'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'baleen' comes from the Old English word 'bรฆlene,' meaning 'to filter or strain.'
  • It shares roots with the Latin word 'balaena,' which means 'whale,' indicating its connection to these sea giants.

The word 'baleen' originates from the Middle English term 'balene', which itself comes from the Old French word 'balรจne'. The Old French term is derived from the Latin word 'balaena', meaning 'whale'. This etymology highlights the close relationship between the term and its biological function, as baleen is a characteristic feature of baleen whales. The concept of baleen dates back to prehistoric times when early forms of filter-feeding evolved in marine mammals. Its development has allowed baleen whales to adapt to a wide range of marine environments, contributing to their success and diversity in the world's oceans.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,677 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.