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

Example Sentences

The study of this threatened killer whale population, which lives in the coastal waters between Vancouver and Seattle, was started by Dr Ken Balcomb more than 50 years ago.

From BBC

The French government has been urged to reconsider rehoming two stranded killer whales in Canada.

From BBC

The shallow water helps protect them from larger sharks and killer whales that would eat them with relish, like chewy hors d’oeuvres, if they drifted too far into the deep blue sea.

From Los Angeles Times

The uncertain future of two killer whales is no closer to being resolved despite the closure of their marine zoo home two months ago.

From BBC

Tasmania's Department of Natural Resources and Environment said 157 false killer whales had beached near Arthur River, in the island's north west.

From BBC