English Lexicon

Pinniped

/ˈpɪn.ɪ.pɛd/
nounadjectiveCEFR C2 (Proficient)Top #28500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A group of marine mammals that includes seals, sea lions, and walruses, characterized by their fin-like limbs.

    "Pinnipeds are often seen lounging on rocky shores or swimming gracefully in the ocean."
  2. 2

    Any member of the family Pinnipedia, which are known for their adaptations to a marine lifestyle.

    "The pinniped population has been affected by climate change and habitat loss."

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Synonyms (3)
Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the modern Latin pinnipeda, combining the Latin pinna (meaning feather, wing, or fin) and pes (meaning foot). Coined in the 19th century to scientifically classify aquatic carnivorous mammals possessing fin-like feet or flippers.

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