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
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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 See all Example Sentences for killer whale 

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of killer whale was in 1884

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 7 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

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