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Pinniped Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pinniped

[ˈpɪnɪˌpɛd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

marine mammals

Pinnipeds are a group of marine mammals that includes seals, sea lions, and walruses. They are characterized by their flippers, streamlined bodies, and ability to live both on land and in water.

Synonyms

sea lion, seal, walrus.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pinniped

Scientific or academic discussions about marine mammals from the Carnivora order that includes seals, sea lions, and walruses.

  • The researchers studied various pinniped behaviors in the wild.
  • Pinniped populations have been impacted by climate change.
seal

Used in everyday conversation to generally describe the aquatic mammal without specifying the exact type. Usually refers to true seals that lack external ear flaps.

  • We spotted a seal basking on the rocks.
  • Seals are known for their adorable faces and clumsy movements on land.
sea lion

Commonly used in casual conversations or when referring specifically to this playful marine mammal with external ear flaps and long front flippers. Often mentioned in relation to aquariums or shows.

  • We saw a sea lion show at the aquarium yesterday.
  • Sea lions are very agile both in water and on land.
walrus

Used when specifically referring to the large marine mammal known for its long tusks, whiskers, and distinctive appearance. Often mentioned in discussions about Arctic wildlife.

  • The walrus is a prominent creature in Inuit culture.
  • Walruses can weigh up to 1,700 kilograms.

Examples of usage

  • Pinnipeds are excellent swimmers, using their flippers to navigate through the water.
  • Seals and sea lions are examples of pinnipeds that can be found along coastal areas.
  • Walruses, with their long tusks and blubbery bodies, are also considered pinnipeds.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Habitat

  • Pinnipeds are found all over the world, from the icy waters of the Arctic to the warm beaches of the tropics.
  • Many pinniped species prefer rocky or sandy shorelines for their breeding colonies, an ideal place to raise their young.

Behavior

  • These animals are social and often live in large groups called 'colonies' where they can interact and communicate.
  • Pinnipeds are known for their intelligent behaviors, including using tools like rocks to crack open shellfish.

Physiology

  • Adult pinnipeds can hold their breath underwater for extended periods, some even up to an hour or more while diving for food.
  • Their blubber keeps them warm in chilly waters, serving as insulation much like the thick fur coats of some land animals.

Conservation

  • Many pinniped species are currently under threat due to climate change, overfishing, and habitat loss.
  • Conservation efforts are in place to protect these unique animals, including the establishment of marine protected areas.

Origin of 'pinniped'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'pinniped' comes from Latin, where 'pinna' means 'fin' and 'ped' means 'foot', highlighting their unique limbs.
  • Some names of pinnipeds can hint at their characteristics, like 'otariid' referring to sea lions and 'phocid' for true seals.

The word 'pinniped' originates from the Latin words 'pinna' meaning fin and 'pedis' meaning foot. It was first used in the mid 19th century to describe the group of marine mammals that have evolved to live in both water and on land. Pinnipeds have adapted to their aquatic lifestyle with specialized features such as flippers and streamlined bodies.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,469, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.