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killer whale
noun
: a relatively small toothed whale (Orcinus orca of the family Delphinidae) that is black above with white underparts and white oval-shaped patches behind the eyes, attains a length of 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters), typically hunts in groups, and preys chiefly on sea mammals (such as seals, sea lions, and other whales), large fish, and squid
called also orca
Examples of killer whale in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
This process uncovered the DNA of two animals: orcas, also known as killer whales, and broadnose sevengill sharks.
—Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 30 Jan. 2025
In 1972, Scottish sailor Dougal Robertson and his family survived for 38 days at sea in a small dinghy after killer whales sunk their schooner near the Galapagos Islands.
—Outside Online, 29 Jan. 2025
Southern resident killer whales have been a target of conservation efforts for decades.
—Evan Bush, NBC News, 3 Jan. 2025
Just like killer whales express their individuality with salmon hats, your pet’s personality might reveal fascinating insights about their behavior and preferences.
—Scott Travers, Forbes, 25 Dec. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1884, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near killer whale
Cite this Entry
“Killer whale.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/killer%20whale. Accessed 10 Feb. 2025.
Kids Definition
killer whale
noun
kill·er whale
ˈkil-ər-
: a flesh-eating mostly black toothed whale 20 to 30 feet (about 6 to 9 meters) long that travels in groups
More from Merriam-Webster on killer whale
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about killer whale
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