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Whales Meaning: Definition and Examples

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whales

[weɪlz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

marine animal

Whales are large marine mammals that belong to the order Cetacea. They are known for their intelligence, complex behaviors, and communication abilities, often using a variety of sounds. Whales are divided into two main groups: baleen whales, which filter feed on small organisms, and toothed whales, which hunt larger prey.

Synonyms

cetacean, marine mammal, whale fish.

Examples of usage

  • Whales can be seen breaching the surface of the ocean.
  • Many species of whales migrate thousands of miles each year.
  • Researchers study the migratory patterns of whales to understand their behavior.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Whales can communicate over long distances using sound, some calls reaching up to 10,000 miles under the right conditions.
  • The blue whale is the largest animal known to have ever existed, weighing up to 200 tons and measuring up to 100 feet long.
  • Their blood can hold more oxygen than that of humans, allowing them to dive deep and stay underwater for lengthy periods.

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures revere whales, viewing them as symbols of strength, wisdom, and the spirit of the ocean.
  • In Inuit tradition, whales are often revered and are part of elaborate myths, showcasing the importance of these animals to their way of life.

Conservation

  • Whale populations were drastically reduced by whaling practices in the 20th century, leading to international efforts to protect them.
  • Some species of whales are still endangered due to threats like hunting, climate change, and plastic pollution.

Literature

  • Herman Melville's famous novel 'Moby-Dick' features a great white whale and explores themes of obsession and the wild nature of the ocean.
  • Whales often inspire art and poetry, representing the mystery of the sea and the beauty of nature.

Origin of 'whales'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'whale' comes from the Old English 'hwæl', which is related to similar words in other Germanic languages.
  • In some cultures, the term 'whale' was historically used to describe any large sea creature.

The word 'whale' comes from the Old English term 'hwæl', which is related to the German 'Wal' and the Dutch 'walvis'. These terms trace back to the Proto-Germanic '*khwēlaz'. The root of the word is partially derived from the Proto-Indo-European '*kwelh₁-', meaning 'to turn, roll', tying the creature's size and movement in water to its name. Historically, whales have held cultural significance for various peoples, serving as sources of food, oil, and materials. Throughout history, they have been referenced in myths, folklore, and literature, illustrating humanity's longstanding fascination with these majestic creatures. With the rise of whaling in the 17th and 18th centuries, the word 'whale' became associated with both the animals themselves and the industries surrounding them. In contemporary society, whales are often seen as symbols of marine conservation and biodiversity.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,331, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.