manta ray

noun

Synonyms of manta raynext
: devil ray
especially : a ray (Manta birostris) that averages 22 feet (6.7 meters) in width with a weight reaching 3000 pounds (1361 kilograms)

Illustration of manta ray

Illustration of manta ray

Examples of manta ray in a Sentence

the manta ray blended in beautifully with the sandy ocean floor
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The architecture is inspired by the manta ray, with the main pavilion shaped to follow the curve of its wings. Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026 The Butcher’s Feast is more than enough for a full meal, but there are other treasures, too, like a beef-noodle soup built on a spectacularly rich, slightly offal-ish broth made with marrow bones, with paper-thin slices of A5-Wagyu rib eye swimming in it like manta rays. Helen Rosner, New Yorker, 24 May 2026 Travelers also visit the nearby Nusa islands for quieter beaches, snorkeling and swimming with manta rays. Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 21 May 2026 From July to October, spot whale sharks and manta rays flocking by the hundreds, or save your trip for November through April to enjoy its dry season, with minimal rainfall, abundant sunshine (eight hours of sun per days’ worth), and high visibility for divers. Skyli Alvarez, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for manta ray

Word History

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of manta ray was in 1951

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Manta ray.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/manta%20ray. Accessed 2 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

manta ray

noun
man·​ta ray
ˈmant-ə-
: any of several extremely large rays that are widely distributed in warm seas and have enlarged pectoral fins resembling wings

called also devilfish, manta

More from Merriam-Webster on manta ray

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster