killer whale

noun

: a relatively small toothed whale (Orcinus orca of the family Delphinidae) that is black above with white underparts and white oval-shaped patches behind the eyes, attains a length of 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters), typically hunts in groups, and preys chiefly on sea mammals (such as seals, sea lions, and other whales), large fish, and squid

called also orca

Examples of killer whale in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The first three records of killer whales (Orcinus orca) killing and eating blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus). —Sean Mowbray, Discover Magazine, 16 July 2024

On June 15, 1972, some 18 months after the family embarked on their voyage, the schooner was attacked by three killer whales in the Pacific Ocean. —Douglas Robertson, Peoplemag, 6 June 2024

Only about 15 out of the fewer than 40 or so killer whales in this population are engaging in the behavior. —Elizabeth Weise, USA TODAY, 24 May 2024

The study observed 11 northern and southern resident killer whales off the coast of British Columbia, Canada. —Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 15 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

killer whale

noun

kill·​er whale

ˈkil-ər-

: a flesh-eating mostly black toothed whale 20 to 30 feet (about 6 to 9 meters) long that travels in groups