Your complete guide to the word "porpoise" – meaning, usage & amazing facts!
What Does "Porpoise" Mean?
Porpoise /ˈpɔːr.pəs/ (POR-puhs) noun – a small, toothed whale that lives in oceans and seas, closely related to dolphins but with a more compact body and blunt snout.
Porpoises are highly intelligent marine mammals known for their shy behavior and acrobatic swimming.
Porpoise vs Dolphin: What’s the Difference?
Snout: Dolphins have long beaks; porpoises have short, rounded snouts.
Teeth: Dolphins have cone-shaped teeth; porpoises have spade-shaped teeth.
Behavior: Dolphins are social and playful; porpoises are shy and avoid boats.
Size: Porpoises are generally smaller than most dolphins.
Example Sentences
The harbor porpoise is commonly found along the coasts of Europe and North America.
Scientists use sonar to track porpoise movements without disturbing them.
Unlike dolphins, porpoises rarely leap out of the water.
Fun Facts About Porpoises
🐬 There are only 7 known species of porpoise in the world!
🌊 The vaquita is the rarest porpoise—and one of the most endangered animals on Earth, with fewer than 10 individuals left.
🔊 Porpoises use echolocation to navigate and hunt in dark or murky waters.
Listen & Practice Pronunciation
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