sea lion

American  

noun

sea lions plural

1. any of several large eared seals, as Eumetopias jubatus Steller's sea lion, of the northern Pacific Ocean, and Zalophus californicus California sea lion, of the Pacific coast of North America.

2. Heraldry. a monster having the forepart of a lion, webbed forepaws, and the dorsal fin and tail of a fish.

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sea lion British  

noun

1. any of various large eared seals, such as Zalophus californianus ( Californian sea lion ), of the N Pacific, often used as a performing animal

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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• sea lions
  plural

Etymology

Origin of sea lion

First recorded in 1595–1605

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

sea lion

On Isabela Island, a local sea lion known as Panchito has become famous for commandeering the loungers at Cormorant Beach House.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 13, 2026

But I do cherish thoughts of snorkeling with playful sea lion pups.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 8, 2026

The finals day of the World Surf League's New Zealand Pro event was paused after a photographer was attacked in the water by a sea creature that organisers believe was a shark or sea lion.

From BBC ● May 25, 2026

A particularly massive sea lion has Bay Area tourists and residents flocking to Pier 39 in San Francisco to spot the mammal affectionately named “Chonkers.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 30, 2026

Suddenly the gap disappeared in a swirling, thrashing sea lion storm.

From "Nim’s Island" by Wendy Orr