orca
Americannoun
noun
Etymology
Origin of orca
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; see orc
Explanation
Orcas, also called killer whales, are actually members of the dolphin family. Orcas hunt in cooperative groups called pods and have distinctive black and white coloring. Orcas are familiar animals to many people from popular culture and a time period (most of the 20th century) when it was common to keep them in captivity. For many years, it was possible to visit an aquarium and see orcas perform tricks. Movies like "Free Willy" popularized orcas and also helped build opposition to keeping orcas captive. The name orca comes from the Latin name for their genus. Earlier, mythical sea monsters were commonly called orc.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Aasen was flying a drone for the Norwegian Orca Survey when he noticed an adult orca carrying the body of a deceased calf through a Norwegian fjord.
From BBC ● Aug. 25, 2026
A lengthy line begins to form in front of the amphitheater where an orca show will happen.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 21, 2026
This fragmentation may increase contact between sunfish and orca microbiomes.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 23, 2026
"It just really shows us how intelligent orca are," Rebecca Wellard, a scientist at Western Australia's Curtin University who was not involved in the research, told AFP.
From Barron's ● Jul. 23, 2026
Cole spotted the glistening keel-like fins of an orca whale guiding her young calf along the shoreline in search of food.
From "Touching Spirit Bear" by Ben Mikaelsen
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