common dolphin

noun

: either of two dolphins of the genus Delphinus (D. delphis and D. capensis) that are found in temperate and tropical waters and have a brown or black back, a whitish belly, and often an hourglass-shaped pattern on the sides

They explain how common dolphins are often found in large numbers and are recognizable by yellowish stripes on their sides above white bellies.

—Pete Thomas, The Los Angeles Times, 30 Mar. 2004

A pod of common dolphins celebrated our mid-day departure from Esperance Bay by surfing our bow wave and leaping 3 m into the air.

—Howard Whelan, Australian Geographic, July/September 1992

Word History

First Known Use

1804, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now