stingray

noun

sting·​ray ˈstiŋ-ˌrā 

: any of numerous rays (as of the family Dasyatidae) with one or more large sharp barbed dorsal spines near the base of the whiplike tail capable of inflicting severe wounds

Illustration of stingray

Examples of stingray in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Unlike dolphins and stingrays, which typically show a single fin before disappearing underwater, sharks often reveal both their dorsal and tail fins. — Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 31 July 2026

Experts predict a surge in stingray encounters and injuries as warmer waters reshape marine ecosystems from San Diego to Monterey. — James Ward, USA Today, 30 July 2026

Ticket holders can enjoy cooking demos, tastings, intimate chef dinners, and signature events like pickleball tournaments and Beach Bash—a beach party that stops at the famous Stingray City, where guests can safely swim and interact with stingrays. — Taylor McIntyre, Travel + Leisure, 28 July 2026

Some species appeared frequently and predictably, like whale sharks and certain stingrays, while others surfaced only once or twice, offering rare glimpses into species that are otherwise difficult to study in the wild. — Melissa Cristina Márquez, Forbes.com, 25 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1624, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for stingray

• airway
• allay
• archway
• array
• ashtray
• assez
• astray
• aue
• away
• ballet
• belay
• beltway

Kids Definition

stingray

noun

sting·​ray ˈstiŋ-ˌrā 

: any of numerous rays that have one or more large sharp stinging spines near the base of the whiplike tail

Medical Definition

stingray

noun

sting·​ray

ˈstiŋ-ˌrā also -rē

: any of numerous large flat cartilaginous fishes (order Myliobatiformes and especially family Dasyatidae) with one or more large sharp barbed dorsal spines near the base of the whiplike tail capable of inflicting severe wounds