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Manatee Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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manatee

[məˈnæti ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

marine animal

A manatee, often referred to as a sea cow, is a large, herbivorous marine mammal that inhabits shallow, warm coastal waters. These gentle giants are part of the order Sirenia and are known for their slow movements and friendly disposition. Manatees have a paddle-shaped tail and flippers that allow them to maneuver through aquatic vegetation. They primarily feed on seagrasses and other aquatic plants. Manatees are also recognized for their significant role in their ecosystems as grazers, helping to maintain healthy seagrass beds.

Synonyms

Sirenian, dugong, sea cow.

Examples of usage

  • The manatee floated gracefully through the warm waters.
  • Wildlife enthusiasts gathered to see the manatees during the tour.
  • Manatees are often at risk due to boat collisions.
  • I saw a manatee while snorkeling in the lagoon.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Conservation

  • Manatees are classified as threatened due to habitat loss, watercraft collisions, and cold stress.
  • Efforts to protect manatees include regulated boating areas, rescues, and rehabilitation programs for injured animals.

History

  • Sailors in the 15th century mistook manatees for mermaids, leading to mythical tales of mermaid sightings.
  • Indigenous people in the Americas have hunted manatees for years, using their meat for food and skin for tools.

Biology

  • Manatees can hold their breath for up to 20 minutes while resting underwater but usually come up for air every 3 to 5 minutes.
  • Weighing between 800 to 1200 pounds, these mammals can reach lengths of up to 13 feet, making them the largest herbivorous marine animals.

Pop Culture

  • In Disney's 'The Little Mermaid,' a manatee is one of the sea creatures that inhabit Ariel's underwater world.
  • Manatees are often featured in documentaries and wildlife programs, portraying them as gentle giants and highlighting their conservation needs.

Origin of 'manatee'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'manatee' comes from the Spanish word 'manatí', which is derived from the Taíno word for the animal, 'manatí'.
  • Historically, manatees were known as 'sea cows' because they graze on underwater plants like cattle do on land.

The word 'manatee' comes from the Spanish term 'manatí,' which itself is derived from the Taíno word 'manatí.' The Taíno people were one of the indigenous groups of the Caribbean, and their name for the animal reflects their interactions with it. The first known use of the term in English dates back to the 16th century when European explorers documented the unique fauna of the New World. Critically, the manatee has been an important part of coastal and riverine ecosystems in the Americas, and historically, it has been admired and even hunted by humans due to its gentle nature and impressive size. Despite facing threats from habitat loss and human activities, conservation efforts have been established to protect this gentle marine mammal and its habitat.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,075 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.