dolphin — a highly intelligent marine mammal with a streamlined body and a distinctive beak-like snout
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a highly intelligent marine mammal with a streamlined body and a distinctive beak-like snout
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈdɑːlfɪn/
Example Sentences
- The dolphin seemed to be laughing as it played with the beach ball.
- Scientists study dolphin communication to understand their complex social behavior.
- The dolphin probably thinks humans are the weird ones for living on land.
dolphin
NOUN[/ˈdɑːlfɪn/]
a highly intelligent marine mammal with a streamlined body and a distinctive beak-like snout
A dolphin leaps high above the ocean waves at sunset.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Ancient Greek 'delphis', which is related to 'delphys' meaning 'womb'. The curved body shape of the dolphin evoked the form of a womb to ancient Greek speakers, leading to this zoological naming.
Breakdown
Greek delphis (dolphin) → Latin dolphinus → Old French daulphin → Middle English and Modern English dolphin, with the Latin form adding the diminutive or agent suffix -inus.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The dolphin seemed to be laughing as it played with the beach ball.”
“Scientists study dolphin communication to understand their complex social behavior.”
“The dolphin probably thinks humans are the weird ones for living on land.”
“Marine biologists use special equipment to track dolphin migration patterns.”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.