manta ray

noun

: devil ray

especially : a ray (Manta birostris) that averages 22 feet (6.7 meters) in width with a weight reaching 3000 pounds (1361 kilograms)

Illustration of manta ray

Synonyms

• devilfish
• manta
• sea devil

Examples of manta ray in a Sentence

the manta ray blended in beautifully with the sandy ocean floor

Recent Examples on the Web

Overhead, a menagerie of developmental detachable toys, including a wiggly octopus, chiming turtle with mirror, crinkly sea star, squeaker crab, and chiming manta ray beckon little hands and feet and promote hand-eye coordination. —Pamela Brill, Parents, 24 Oct. 2024

Tagging manta rays and whale sharks in Indonesia offers immediate gratification. —Julia Zaltzman, Robb Report, 6 Aug. 2024

Snorkeling at Night With Manta Rays Kona is one of the few places in the world where manta rays can be viewed year-round in their natural habitat. —Kait Hanson, Travel + Leisure, 15 July 2024

Snorkelers of all ages led by experienced swimmers and divers are welcomed into the water at dusk, accompanied by large lights that attract plankton, thus pulling manta rays up close to feed. —Kait Hanson, Travel + Leisure, 15 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

manta ray

noun

man·​ta ray

ˈmant-ə-

: any of several extremely large rays that are widely distributed in warm seas and have enlarged pectoral fins resembling wings

called also devilfish, manta