penguin

noun

pen·​guin ˈpen-gwən 

ˈpeŋ-

: any of various erect short-legged flightless aquatic birds (family Spheniscidae) of the southern hemisphere

Examples of penguin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The penguin inspiration comes from how the animals manage heat using layered structures, directional insulation, waterproofing, and environmental adaptation. —New Atlas, 25 May 2026

Too much red, meanwhile, risks disorienting penguins, whose eyes can’t perceive it (likely because red light does not deeply penetrate the ocean, which is their primary hunting environment). —Oscar Holland, CNN Money, 25 May 2026

This is an extraordinary stay for intrepid, adventurous and wealthy Shackleton fans and penguin enthusiasts. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 May 2026

And Harry surprised Meghan with a bronze sculpture of two penguins nestled closely together. —Meredith Kile, PEOPLE, 20 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

obsolete English penguin great auk, perhaps from Welsh pen gwyn white head (applied to the bird in winter plumage)

First Known Use

1577, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing penguin

• Adélie penguin
• chinstrap penguin
• emperor penguin
• gentoo penguin
• king penguin
• macaroni penguin
• Magellanic penguin

Kids Definition

penguin

noun

pen·​guin ˈpen-gwən 

ˈpeŋ-

: any of various short-legged seabirds of the southern hemisphere that cannot fly and have wings functioning as flippers and used in swimming