bottlenose dolphin

noun

bot·​tle·​nose dolphin ˈbä-tᵊl-ˌnōz- How to pronounce bottlenose dolphin (audio)
variants or less commonly bottle-nosed dolphin or bottlenose
: a relatively small chiefly gray toothed whale (Tursiops truncatus) of temperate to tropical waters that has a prominent beak and falcate dorsal fin, reaches a length of 6 to 12 feet (1.8 to 3.6 meters), and is typically found in groups
also : a related whale (T. aduncus) of waters of the Indian Ocean and western Pacific Ocean

Examples of bottlenose dolphin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The researchers are studying the resident bottlenose dolphin community offshore of Sarasota, Florida. Leonard David, Space.com, 23 May 2025 While many sun-seekers visit the area for beach and ocean activities like a shipwreck trail for scuba divers and viewing the world's largest bottlenose dolphin population, outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy a variety of hiking at popular trails within St. Andrews State Park, according to AllTrails. Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 9 May 2025 Last year, a bottlenose dolphin was found shot to death on a Louisiana beach, prompting authorities to offer a $20,000 reward. CBS News, 8 May 2025 Groups throughout the day were able to see 10 fin whales, a pod of bottlenose dolphins and another pod of common dolphins, the post said. Paloma Chavez, Sacbee.com, 14 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for bottlenose dolphin

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bottlenose dolphin was in 1826

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Cite this Entry

“Bottlenose dolphin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bottlenose%20dolphin. Accessed 5 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

bottlenose dolphin

noun
bot·​tle·​nose dolphin
ˌbät-ᵊl-ˌnōz-
: a medium-sized stout-bodied whale with teeth and a short snout

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