cetaceans
|ce-ta-cean-s|
/sɪˈteɪʃənz/
(cetacean)
whale-like marine mammal
Etymology
'cetacean' originates from New Latin 'Cetacean', ultimately from Latin 'cetus' or Latinized form 'cetaceus', where the root relates to 'whale' or 'sea monster'.
'cetacean' changed from the Latin word 'cetus' (from Greek 'ketos' meaning 'whale, sea monster') through New Latin 'Cetacea' (the order name) and the adjective/noun 'cetacean' into modern English 'cetacean(s)'.
Initially it referred directly to 'whale' or 'sea monster' in classical languages; over time it came to denote the scientific group of marine mammals (whales, dolphins, porpoises) and is now used as the common and scientific term for members of that group.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'cetacean'; any member of the order Cetacea — large, fully aquatic marine mammals such as whales, dolphins, and porpoises.
Cetaceans such as whales and dolphins are adapted to life in the water.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
relating to or resembling members of the order Cetacea (e.g., cetacean anatomy).
Researchers studied cetacean behavior in coastal waters.
Last updated: 2026/01/01 13:31