# humpback

/ˈhəmpˌbæk/ (US) · /hˈʌmpbæk/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/humpback
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

a very large whale with a curved back and long fins. These whales are famous for their beautiful songs and for jumping out of the water.

For teachers: a large baleen whale of the genus Megaptera, characterized by a humped back and exceptionally long pectoral fins. Known for complex vocalizations and breaching behavior.

## Examples

- We saw a humpback jump out of the ocean today.
- During their winter migration, several humpback whales were spotted breaching just a few miles off the coast.
- Marine biologists have spent decades recording the intricate, evolving songs of the humpback, which can travel for hundreds of miles through the deep ocean.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a modifier in the compound 'humpback whale'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.