killer whale

noun

1. any of several predatory dolphins, especially the black-and-white Orcinus orca, found in all seas.

killer whale

noun

1. Also called: killer.  grampus.  orc. a predatory black-and-white toothed whale, Orcinus orca, with a large erect dorsal fin, most common in cold seas: family Delphinidae

Word History and Origins

Origin of killer whale¹

First recorded in 1880–85