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Whale Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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whale

[weɪl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

marine animal

A whale is a large marine mammal that belongs to the order Cetacea. Whales are known for their size, some species being among the largest animals to have ever existed. They are warm-blooded, breathe air through lungs, and are known for their complex behaviors and vocalizations.

Synonyms

cetacean, marine mammal, sea creature.

Examples of usage

  • The blue whale is the largest animal on the planet.
  • Whales can often be seen breaching the surface of the ocean.
  • Many cultures have rich histories of whaling.
  • Whale watching has become a popular tourist activity.
  • Some whales, like the humpback, are known for their songs.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Whales are divided into two main types: baleen whales that filter food from water and toothed whales that hunt for fish.
  • They can communicate with each other through complex songs, especially in species like the humpback whale.
  • Some species can grow to over 100 feet long and weigh as much as 200 tons, making them the largest animals on Earth.

Cultural Symbolism

  • Whales have been featured in various mythologies, often seen as guardians of the ocean and symbols of wisdom.
  • In some indigenous cultures, the whale represents life and renewal, showing the deep connection people have with the sea.

Environmental Impact

  • Whales play a crucial role in marine ecosystems; their feeding and migratory patterns help maintain the health of ocean environments.
  • The leakage of nutrients from their bodies after they die promotes the growth of plankton, which is vital for carbon capture and ocean health.

Conservation

  • Many whale species are endangered due to whaling, climate change, and habitat destruction, which has sparked global conservation efforts.
  • Organizations are working to protect whale habitats and regulate commercial whaling to ensure these majestic creatures survive for future generations.

Origin of 'whale'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'whale' comes from the Old English term 'hwæl,' which means 'large sea creature.'
  • In many languages, the word for whale is derived from similar roots, reflecting its importance in different cultures.

The word 'whale' comes from the Old English word 'hwæl', which is derived from the Proto-Germanic '*hwalaz'. This term has cognates in other Germanic languages, such as 'Wahl' in German and 'wal' in Dutch, all referring to the same marine animal. Whales have been known to humanity for thousands of years, and they have played significant roles in various cultures, from mythology to early hunting practices. Over time, the term 'whale' has been used to describe a diverse group of large marine mammals, which includes species like the orca, beluga, and sperm whale. The study of whales, known as cetology, has expanded significantly over the last century, leading to a greater understanding of their behaviors, communication, and the threats they face due to human activities.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,287 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.