Definition

A person who uses a long spear with a sharp point, called a harpoon, to catch large sea animals like whales.

Example

The harpooner skillfully aimed his harpoon at the whale swimming nearby.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a harpooner?

Yeah, I think they are those people who hunt whales, right?

Exactly! It sounds like such a tough job.

It really does, especially with how dangerous it can be.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Harpooner → The word is formed from "harpoon" (from Middle French *harpon*, meaning a barbed spear) and the suffix "-er" (meaning a person who). A harpooner is a person who uses a harpoon, typically for hunting large sea animals.

Memory Tip

Think of a person who uses a 'barbed spear' ('harpoon') — the '-er' indicates that this person is the one doing the action.

Visually Confused Words