sea lion

sea lion

noun

: a large seal that lives near coasts in the Pacific Ocean

Full Definition of SEA LION

:  any of several Pacific eared seals (as genera Eumetopias and Zalophus) that are usually larger than the related fur seals and lack a thick underfur

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First Known Use of SEA LION

1697

sea lion

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Any of five species (family Otariidae) of eared seals found along coasts on both sides of the Pacific, from Alaska to Australia. Sea lions have short, coarse hair that lacks a distinct undercoat. The males of all but the California sea lion have a mane. Sea lions feed principally on fish, squid, and octopus. They breed in large herds; males establish a harem of 3–20 females. The California sea lion (Zalophus californianus) is the trained seal of circuses and zoos. Males of the various species range from 8 to 11 ft (2.5–3.3 m) long and weigh 600–2,200 lbs (270–1,000 kg).