Definition of beluga
1 : a large white sturgeon (Huso huso synonym Acipenser huso) of the Black Sea, Caspian Sea, and their tributaries; also : caviar processed from beluga roe — compare osetra, sevruga
2 [Russian belukha, from belyĭ] : a toothed whale (Delphinapterus leucas) of arctic and subarctic waters having a fusiform body that is about 10 to 15 feet (3.0 to 5.0 meters) long and white when mature —called also white whale
Indulge Your Inner Word Nerd
Recent Examples of beluga from the Web
-
A newborn beluga whale died shortly after it was born at SeaWorld Orlando, the theme park announced Friday.
-
The beluga whales are also floating around and the otters take their dives as well.
-
In addition, Shedd visitors can touch the skin of a beluga whale and stingray and assist a trainer for the day and feed animals.
-
On June 2, the society received a tip the beluga was in the river.
-
Walruses, along with beluga whales, typically can be seen in the Wild Arctic habitat of the theme park.
-
Researchers found unique genetic variants that differentiate costly beluga caviar from cheaper fakes that rip off consumers.
-
The area abounds with polar bears, harp and ringed seals, millions of birds, narwhal, beluga, and bowhead whales.
-
Just this year, scientists showed that domoic acid from toxic algae was showing up in walrus, bowhead whales, beluga, and fur seals in Alaska's Arctic, where such algae species weren't believed to be common.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'beluga.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Illustration of beluga
Origin and Etymology of beluga
Russian, from belyĭ white; akin to Greek phalios having a white spot — more at bald
Learn More about beluga
-
See words that rhyme with beluga Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about beluga
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up beluga? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!