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Glite Dictionary
Megaptera

Megaptera

9.9
A large whale with long fins called the humpback whale
  • noun
  • /ˈmɛɡəˌtɪərə/
  • Specialized
translation icon : Megaptera
  • The scientific name for the humpback whale is Megaptera.

Examples

  • The scientific name for the humpback whale is Megaptera.

  • Megaptera is easily recognized by its long pectoral fins and distinctive body shape.

  • Researchers studied the migration patterns of Megaptera in the Pacific Ocean.

  • The Megaptera is known for its acrobatic displays.

  • Many Megapteras migrate thousands of miles each year.

  • Researchers studied the migration patterns of Megaptera in the Pacific Ocean.

  • Megaptera is easily recognized by its long pectoral fins and distinctive body shape.

Synonyms

humpback
vsMegaptera
16 4.3

A large whale with long flippers and a rounded back when diving

is the genus name that groups this and related large baleen species
humpback whale
vsMegaptera
6 2.7

A large whale with long flippers that arches its back when diving

is broader, naming the whole genus rather than just one species

Surface Forms

Megaptera singular
Megapteras plural

Morphology

Megaptera = mega + pter

Although the name is built from classical Greek elements, the formation is not transparent to an average B1 English learner and does not clearly decompose into familiar modern English words.

Etymology

Megaptera comes from Greek parts mega- ('large') and pteron ('wing'). So the name means 'large wing', a helpful image for humpback whales with very long pectoral fins.