fin whale

noun

: a baleen whale (Balaenoptera physalus) that may attain a length of over 70 feet (21 meters) and is found chiefly in subtropical to arctic and antarctic waters worldwide

called also finback

Illustration of fin whale

Illustration of fin whale

Examples of fin whale in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Iceland’s government temporarily suspended the commercial hunting of fin whales last year on animal welfare grounds. Sylvia Hui, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 June 2024 Alongside these species, visitors may have an opportunity to catch a glimpse of some of the largest organisms to ever call earth home, with the fin whale being a particular highlight for those fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of one during a tour. Jared Ranahan, Forbes, 25 Nov. 2024 An endangered fin whale washed up near a coastal trail in Alaska attracting dozens of curious observers as wildlife biologists investigated the reason behind the marine animal's death. Saman Shafiq, USA TODAY, 20 Nov. 2024 The demise, revival, and demise again of the fin whale. Longreads, 25 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for fin whale 

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fin whale was in 1885

Dictionary Entries Near fin whale

Cite this Entry

“Fin whale.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fin%20whale. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

fin whale

noun
: a baleen whale that may reach a length of over 70 feet (21 meters)

More from Merriam-Webster on fin whale

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