Whalebone: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term originates from the Old English word 'hwæl', meaning whale, combined with 'bān', meaning bone.
• In historical usages, whalebone often referred specifically to the baleen plates found in certain whale species.

History

• During the 18th and 19th centuries, whalebone was a valuable commodity, used extensively in fashion and industry.
• The decline of whaling in the late 19th century led to the use of alternatives such as steel and other materials.

Science

• Baleen, often referred to as whalebone, is made up of keratin, the same protein found in human hair and nails.
• Whale species that utilize baleen, such as the humpback and gray whales, can filter vast amounts of water to catch tiny organisms.

Literature

• Herman Melville's classic novel 'Moby-Dick' explores the whaling industry, highlighting the importance of whales and their physical properties.
• Some literary works use whalebone as a symbol of strength and resilience, reflecting its historical uses in everyday objects.

Pop Culture

• Whalebone is often depicted in movies and documentaries about marine life, showcasing the beauty and size of whales.
• The term also appears in fashion discussions about vintage clothing, where whalebone corsets were popular among women in the early 20th century.