sea lion

noun

: any of several Pacific eared seals (such as genera Eumetopias and Zalophus) that are usually larger than the related fur seals and lack a thick underfur

Examples of sea lion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The marine conservation area near Point Sal encompasses kelp forests and what’s known as Lion Rock, a haven for sea lions, seals and migratory birds, said Violet Sage Walker, chair of the Northern Chumash Tribal Council. — Lila Seidman, Los Angeles Times, 19 Oct. 2026 The Marine Mammal Center cautions against getting too close to sea lions and whales, for everyone’s safety. — Anne Ewbank, Sacbee.com, 15 Oct. 2026 Marine life thrives around the islands — 27 species of whales and dolphins live or pass through the area, along with elephant seals, harbor seals, sea lions, California brown pelicans and rare seabirds like the Scripps’ murrelet. — Catherine Garcia, TheWeek, 23 Sep. 2026 The Inian Islands, for starters, are one of the most biologically rich places on Earth, with Steller sea lions and bald eagles roaming about. — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 18 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sea lion

Word History

First Known Use

1697, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sea lion was in 1697

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Cite this Entry

“Sea lion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sea%20lion. Accessed 23 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

sea lion

noun
: any of several large Pacific seals that have small ears on the outside of the body

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