killer
38
2.2
- noun
- /ˈkɪlər/
:
orca
- It's a movie about releasing a killer whale into the wild.
- a killer whale
- a killer whale (orca)
- a killer whale attack
Now these dolphins, they range in size from quite small to fairly large, and they include the pilot whale and the killer whale.
- Now these dolphins, they range in size from quite small to fairly large, and they include the pilot whale and the killer whale.
- Sea lions, now sea lions, straight seals, gay killer whales.
Examples
-
Then, as if on cue, a bull killer whale rushes in.
Academic text (1998) -
As fresh blood again colors the surface, two more killer whales join the attack.
Academic text (1998) -
Are they at least killer whales, sir?
-
It's either a great white or another killer whale.
-
The ice may also provide some protection from killer whale attacks.
Academic text (1995) -
The orca, or killer whale,is the king of the ocean.
-
Their main predators are sharks, killer whales, and Steller sea lions if given the opportunity.
Academic text (2004) -
In late September 2000, 3-5 killer whales were seen near Bird Point and at Peterson Creek in Turnagain Arm.
Academic text (2000) -
Off the rugged coast of the Pacific Northwest, pods of killer whales inhabit the frigid waters.
-
The documentary showcased a pod of killer whales hunting for food in the icy ocean.
Synonyms
25
3.4
A large black and white whale with sharp teeth that hunts other animals
20
3.2
A large black and white whale with teeth that hunts other sea animals
1
6.0
A large black-and-white whale with teeth and a tall fin that hunts in groups
1
8.7
A medium-sized black and grey whale that hunts in groups
A large black-and-white whale that hunts other sea animals like seals and fish
Compounds
- Offensive
11
9.9
An insulting name for a person who kills or is accused of killing babies
- NSFW
5
9.2
A person who kills several people in a short time in different places without pausing
A large fly that looks like a bee and catches other insects in the air to drink their juices
- Specialized
A white blood cell that finds and destroys virus-infected or cancerous body cells
- NSFW
A man who many women find very attractive and who often takes advantage of them
Surface Forms
Morphology
killer = killer whale (opaque) = kill + whale
If a learner knows the species name 'killer whale', the shortened form 'killer' can be recognized, but the clipping is not fully predictable because 'killer' normally has a broader meaning.
Etymology
The name killer for the whale comes from sailors who first called them 'whale-killers' because they hunt and kill large whales, and that phrase became killer whale, also known as orca. So calling the animal a killer shows it is a powerful hunter.