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manta ray

noun

Definition of manta raynext
as in ray
any of several extremely large rays the manta ray blended in beautifully with the sandy ocean floor

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of manta ray Nusa Lembongan, the neighboring island connected by the landmark 450-foot-long Yellow Bridge, is where scuba divers seek encounters with manta rays and whales, and snorkeling enthusiasts can spend hours floating above vibrant coral reefs. — Norm Bour, Travel + Leisure, 1 Sep. 2026 Farah Hamdan is the resident manta ray and marine ecologist, and Emily Hoad is the assistant project manager in the Raa Atoll. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Aug. 2026 The film also traces Kennedy’s redemption from a troubled past that included the Hells Angels and time in prison, while highlighting the growing threats facing manta rays and the urgency of protecting them. — Maya Santiago, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Aug. 2026 Silky sharks have also been observed scraping against manta rays near Malpelo Island off Colombia. — Melissa Cristina Márquez, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for manta ray
Recent Examples of Synonyms for manta ray
  1. ray
  2. sea devil
  3. manta
Noun
  • Now, however, the boutique physical media label Fun City Editions has released a superb Blu-ray of the film, featuring both a gorgeous restoration and illuminating supplements.
    — Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 17 Sep. 2026
  • Comfort, breathability, and packability are just a few of the boxes checked by this bamboo-viscose hoodie that blocks 95 percent of the sun’s UV rays (and comes in women’s sizes).
    — Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 17 Sep. 2026
Definition of ray
Noun
  • Among certain species of anglerfish, like those in the sea devil (Ceratiidae) family, males are little more than sperm sacs with nostrils.
    — Katherine J. Wu, Smithsonian Magazine, 14 Feb. 2020
Definition of sea devil
Noun
  • From roughly October through March, higher concentrations of plankton can attract larger groups of mantas but make the water cloudier.
    — Sarah Bruning, Travel + Leisure, 27 Aug. 2026
  • The water was sparkly and glittery thanks to the bright sunrays shining through, and one manta even flipped out of the ocean right in front of me.
    — Annie Daly, Vogue, 11 Aug. 2026
Definition of manta

Browse Nearby Words

manta
manta ray
manta rays
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Cite this Entry

“Manta ray.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/manta%20ray. Accessed 24 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on manta ray

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about manta ray

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