Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small Arctic whale species: Monodon monoceros is the scientific name for a specific type of toothed whale found in Arctic waters.
   • Characterized by a long, spiral tusk: The species is notable for the male's distinctive long, straight, spiraled ivory tusk, which is actually an elongated canine tooth.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The monodon monoceros is uniquely adapted to life in the icy Arctic seas.
  • Scientists are studying the behavior of the monodon monoceros, often called the narwhal.

Advanced Usage

• In scientific and zoological contexts: The term is used formally in taxonomy and marine biology to refer precisely to this species, distinguishing it from other cetaceans.
  • The genus Monodon contains only one extant species, Monodon monoceros.

Variants and Related Words

• Narwhal (n): The common name for .
  • The narwhal's tusk has fascinated people for centuries.
• Narwhale (n): An alternative, less common spelling for narwhal.

Synonyms

• Narwhal: The common English name for the same animal.
• Arctic whale: A descriptive term, though it refers to other species as well.

Related Phrases

• "The unicorn of the sea": A popular idiom and nickname for the due to its long, spiral tusk resembling the horn of the mythical unicorn.
  • The monodon monoceros is often called the unicorn of the sea.

Noun

1. small Arctic whale the male having a long spiral ivory tusk