orca

[awr-kuh]

noun

1. the killer whale, Orcinus orca.

orca

/ ˈɔːkə /

noun

1. a killer whale

Word History and Origins

Origin of orca¹

First recorded in 1650–60; from New Latin, former taxonomic name, from Latin, a kind of whale, perhaps a grampus, from Greek óryga (accusative of óryx ), a kind of large fish, perhaps a narwhal. The g became c under the influence of Latin orca, a kind of large earthenware vessel with a narrow neck; orc

Word History and Origins

Origin of orca¹

C20: Latin

Example Sentences

Keeping them in separate pools permanently is considered harmful to their wellbeing as orcas are sociable animals.

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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.

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The contestants deal with rough seas, strong currents, jellyfish and sundry venomous creatures, intruding fishermen, limited air, sinus crises, variable visibility and unexpected orcas.

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During 12 days - between April and July 2024 - of studying a population of orcas known as the Southern Residents in the coastal waters off Washington State, the team recorded 30 bouts of kelp massage.

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Within a couple of years, it had pivoted to offering travel bookings and experiences like swimming with orcas and dining in the Egyptian pyramids.

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Related Words

• mammal 
• porpoise