humpback

noun

hump·​back ˈhəmp-ˌbak How to pronounce humpback (audio)
for sense 1 also
-ˈbak How to pronounce humpback (audio)
plural humpbacks
1
: a humped or crooked back
also : kyphosis
2
dated, offensive : a person with a humpback
3
4

Examples of humpback in a Sentence

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.
People are well outnumbered by the humpbacks and pods of orcas, bald eagles and herons, seals and sea lions grunting their tone-deaf tunes atop the rocks. Laura Dannen Redman, Robb Report, 5 Dec. 2025 Newport Coastal Adventure owner Ryan Lawler said this time of year is often underappreciated, but for the past decade, humpbacks have been very present. Laylan Connelly, Oc Register, 1 Dec. 2025 While it is believed that the whales and fish have a mutually beneficial relationship, Meynecke was not as sure that the humpbacks were enjoying the tagalongs. Michael Nied, PEOPLE, 10 Nov. 2025 As the humpback plunges back below the surface the remoras, also known as sucker fish, return to the whale, sticking their landings with the timing and precision of Olympic gymnasts. CNN Money, 8 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for humpback

Word History

First Known Use

1697, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of humpback was in 1697

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Humpback.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/humpback. Accessed 15 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

humpback

noun
hump·​back ˈhəmp-ˌbak How to pronounce humpback (audio)
1
: a humped or crooked back
2
3
humpbacked
-ˈbakt
adjective

Medical Definition

humpback

noun
hump·​back
-ˌbak, for 1 also -ˈbak
: a humped or crooked back
also : kyphosis
humpbacked adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on humpback

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