Porpoise
(noun)
A small, gregarious marine mammal that is similar in appearance to a dolphin, but has a more rounded body and a shorter snout.
Origin:
The word 'porpoise' is derived from the old french word 'porpeis', which was in turn derived from the latin word 'porcopiscus', meaning a kind of fish. it has been used to refer to the small marine mammal since the late 16th century.
Examples:
- The porpoise leapt gracefully out of the water and dove back in, leaving a trail of bubbles in its wake.
- Porpoises are known for their playful and social behavior, often riding the bow waves of boats.
- The porpoise's skin is covered in small bumps called tubercles that are thought to help reduce drag in the water.
- Fishing nets can be dangerous for porpoises, as they can become entangled and drown.
- The porpoise's diet consists mainly of small fish and squid, which it catches using its powerful jaws and sharp teeth.