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Glite Dictionary
Physeteridae

Physeteridae

9.9
A family of large whales with teeth that includes the sperm whale
  • noun
  • /faɪˈsiːtərɪˌdeɪ/
  • Specialized
: Physeteridae
  • The Physeteridae family is best known for its largest member, the sperm whale.

Examples

  • Scientists study Physeteridae fossils to understand the evolution of toothed whales.

  • All living members of Physeteridae are now represented by a single extant species.

  • The Physeteridae family includes the giant sperm whale.

  • Many species within the Physeteridae family are endangered.

  • The Physeteridae family includes the famous sperm whale, known for its exceptional hunting skills.

  • Research on Physeteridae helps scientists understand the adaptations of large toothed whales.

  • The Physeteridae family is fascinating due to the size and diversity of its members.

Synonyms

family Physeteridae
vsPhyseteridae
  • Specialized
9.1

A group of large sea mammals like sperm whales

includes living sperm whales and also closely related extinct forms

Compounds

family Physeteridae
  • Specialized
9.1

A group of large sea mammals like sperm whales

Surface Forms

Physeteridae singular
Physeteridaes plural

Morphology

Physeteridae = Physeter (opaque) = Physeter + idae

Formed from the genus name 'Physeter' plus the specialized taxonomic family suffix '-idae'; this is a domain-specific formation unlikely to be transparent to general learners.

Etymology

The word Physeteridae comes from the Greek name Physeter ('blower'), from physa ('bellows' or 'to blow'), and the ending -idae shows it is a 'family' of animals. So the name fits the sperm whale and its close relatives that 'blow' air at the surface of the sea.