california sea lion
Definition
Noun: * A species of sea lion (Zalophus californianus) native to the western coast of North America. It is characterized by its intelligence, loud barking, and the prominent sagittal crest (a bump on the top of the head) on adult males. This species is often trained as a show animal.
Usage
The term "California sea lion" is used as a countable noun to refer to an individual animal or the species as a whole. It specifies a particular type of sea lion distinct from others, like the Steller sea lion.
Examples
- A group of California sea lions was basking on the pier.
- The California sea lion is known for its agility and loud vocalizations.
- We saw a male California sea lion with a large, bumpy crest on its head.
Advanced Usage
- The term is used in scientific and zoological contexts to classify and discuss this specific pinniped.
- It is commonly used in marine park and aquarium contexts due to the animal's prevalence in shows and educational programs.
Variants and Related Words
- Sea lion (n): The general common name for several species of eared seals in the family Otariidae, which includes the California sea lion.
- Zalophus californianus (n): The scientific binomial name for the California sea lion.
Synonyms
- Show sea lion (informal, contextual): This is not a formal synonym but describes its common role in aquariums.
- Eared seal (n): A broader term for seals with external ear flaps, including sea lions and fur seals.
Related Phrases
- Trained sea lion: A phrase often used to describe California sea lions in performance contexts, highlighting the trait mentioned in the core definition.
- Barking sea lion: A descriptive phrase referencing one of its characteristic behaviors.
Noun
-
often trained as a show animal
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