ENGLISH
REFERENCE

whales

n. countable
A1 Beginner US //ˈhweɪɫz// UK //wˈeɪlz// whales

n. very large animals that live in the ocean and breathe air through a hole on top of their heads. Even though they look like big fish, they are actually mammals.

n. large aquatic mammals belonging to the order Cetacea, characterised by a streamlined body and a blowhole for breathing. They are distinguished from fish by being warm-blooded and nursing their young with milk.


SIMPLE

We saw several whales swimming near the boat.

CONTEXTUAL

During the winter months, many species of whales migrate to warmer waters to give birth to their calves.

COMPLEX

The conservation of blue whales remains a priority for marine biologists, as these massive creatures play a vital role in maintaining the health of the ocean's ecosystem through nutrient cycling.

Synonyms
Usage

The plural form is usually 'whales', though 'whale' can occasionally be used as a collective plural in a hunting or commercial context.

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