dolphin

dol-phin · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A highly intelligent aquatic mammal with a beaklike snout and a curved dorsal fin, known for its playful behavior.

  2. 2.

    (Historical) A spar or buoy used for mooring boats.

  3. 3.

    A representation of a dolphin used in heraldry or decoration.

Forms

plural: dolphins

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    dolphin kick — A swimming technique where legs move together
  • •
    bottlenose dolphin — The most common dolphin species

Related words

See also: mammal, porpoise, whale
Synonyms: porpoise

Etymology

From Old French daulphin, from Latin delphinus, from Greek delphis ("dolphin"), possibly related to delphys ("womb"), referring to the dolphin's mammalian nature.