humpback whale

[huhmp-bak hweyl, weyl]

noun

1. a large baleen whale of the genus Megaptera having long narrow flippers, and noted for its habit of arching deeply as it dives: an endangered species.

Word History and Origins

Origin of humpback whale¹

First recorded in 1715–25

Example Sentences

Juneau is arguably the whale watching capital of Alaska, with humpback whales traveling from Hawaii to the area every summer, along with resident and migratory orcas, so whale watching was high on our list.

From Salon

"Whether it's sailing alongside humpback whales, or receiving greetings by fishermen on the Fiji islands, my boats allow me to sail… with strength and safety."

From BBC

Since the 1970s, humans have been entranced by the songs of humpback whales, for example.

From Salon

In the coming weeks, rescuers are waiting to see if a group of humpback whales feeding in an algae bloom hotspot near the Channel Islands will become sick and come to shore.

From Los Angeles Times

Domoic acid has been found in blue and humpback whales, as well as Guadalupe fur seals, which is a threatened species.

From Los Angeles Times