cetacean
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /sɪˈteɪʃən/
KK: /sɪˈteɪʃən/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a group of marine mammals that includes whales, dolphins, and porpoises.
Example
The research focused on cetacean behavior in their natural habitat.
Conversation
Did you know that dolphins are cetacean mammals?
Really? I always thought they were just fish!
Nope, they're definitely cetacean and very intelligent too.
That's fascinating! I need to learn more about them.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
marine
aquatic
oceanic
Antonyms
terrestrial
land
nonmarine
noun
Definition
A type of marine mammal that includes whales, dolphins, and porpoises, known for their streamlined bodies and adaptations for life in water.
Example
The blue whale is the largest cetacean in the ocean.
Conversation
Did you know that a cetacean can hold its breath for over an hour?
That's impressive! I didn't realize they could do that.
Yeah, and whales are some of the largest cetaceans in the ocean.
Root Explanation
Cetacean is derived from the Latin 'cetus' (meaning whale) and the suffix '-an' (meaning pertaining to). Thus, the term 'cetacean' refers to animals that are related to or characteristic of whales and similar marine mammals.
Memory Tip
Think of 'cetus' which means whale, and remember that 'cetacean' refers to creatures that are related to whales.
Visually Confused Words
testacean