Whalebone Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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whalebone
[ˈweɪlboʊn ]
Definition
material use
Whalebone refers to the hardened plates of baleen found in the mouths of certain whales, which they use for filter feeding. Historically, whalebone was highly valued for its flexibility and strength, making it useful in the manufacture of various products such as corsets, umbrella ribs, and other items requiring a lightweight yet durable material. The harvesting of whalebone was a significant industry during the whaling era, leading to the decline of certain whale populations. Today, the use of whalebone is largely abandoned, replaced by synthetic materials and conservation efforts to protect whale species.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The corset was made from whalebone.
- Whalebone was essential in the fashion industry.
- Many historical artifacts showcase the use of whalebone.
- The museum displayed items crafted from whalebone.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'whalebone'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The term 'whalebone' emerged during the 17th century, deriving from the compound of 'whale' and 'bone', although it is not a true bone but rather keratin. The use of whalebone became prominent in Europe and North America during the whaling boom, especially in the 18th and 19th centuries, when hunting baleen whales like the bowhead and gray whale for their baleen plates became widespread. Whalebone's significance in fashion and industry contributed to the depletion of whale populations, which prompted the conservation efforts in the 20th century. As the whaling industry began to decline, the term 'whalebone' gradually fell out of everyday use, replaced by modern materials more sustainable and ethically sourced.