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.
Other iconic marine animals, including whale sharks, oceanic whitetip sharks and manta rays, were also added to a list that bans all the commercial trade of their species or by-products. Claire Cameron, Scientific American, 1 Dec. 2025 The team designed flexible zinc-manganese dioxide (Zn-MnO₂) batteries encapsulated in soft silicone and vertically stacked inside a robot inspired by the manta ray. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 26 Nov. 2025 The outlet noted that they have been known to catch a ride on other sea life, such as manta rays and dolphins. Michael Nied, PEOPLE, 10 Nov. 2025 In the absence of whales, sucker fish avoid predators by seeking other large creatures to latch onto, including manta rays, dolphins and unlucky scuba divers. CNN Money, 8 Nov. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Manta ray.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/manta%20ray. Accessed 13 Dec. 2025.

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

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