penguin

noun

pen·​guin ˈpen-gwən 

ˈpeŋ-

: any of various erect short-legged flightless aquatic birds (family Spheniscidae) of the southern hemisphere

Examples of penguin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Imagine soaking in the tub and viewing penguins diving off ice floes. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Sep. 2026

Despite living in warm-weather climates, African penguins have dense, waterproof black, white and gray feathers to protect them from the cold water. — ABC News, 2 Sep. 2026

Just like actual penguins, books are on the brink of extinction. — Rebecca Rosman, NPR, 31 Aug. 2026

At least 19 beluga whales, three seals, one dolphin and multiple penguins and sea lions have died at the park since 2019, according to animal welfare group Animal Justice. — Thao Nguyen, USA Today, 28 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

obsolete English penguin great auk, perhaps from Welsh pen gwyn white head (applied to the bird in winter plumage)

First Known Use

1577, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing penguin

• Adélie penguin
• chinstrap penguin
• emperor penguin
• gentoo penguin
• king penguin
• macaroni penguin
• Magellanic penguin

Kids Definition

penguin

noun

pen·​guin ˈpen-gwən 

ˈpeŋ-

: any of various short-legged seabirds of the southern hemisphere that cannot fly and have wings functioning as flippers and used in swimming