hair seal
Definition
Noun: A type of seal (a marine mammal) characterized by the absence of external ear flaps (pinnae) and possessing a coat of coarse, stiff hair. Its hind limbs are adapted into swimming flippers.
Usage
The term "hair seal" is used to refer specifically to seals in the family Phocidae, commonly known as true seals or earless seals. It distinguishes them from the eared seals (like sea lions) of the family Otariidae. - Scientists observed a group of hair seals basking on the ice floe. - The harbor seal is a common example of a hair seal.
Advanced Usage
- The term is often used in biological and zoological contexts to describe anatomical and taxonomic characteristics.
- It can be used in comparative phrases: "Unlike the eared seal, the hair seal lacks visible external ears."
Variants and Related Words
- Earless seal: A direct synonym for "hair seal."
- True seal: Another common synonym.
- Phocid: The scientific/adjective form relating to hair seals (from the family name Phocidae).
- Harbor seal, Gray seal, Harp seal: These are all specific species of hair seals.
Synonyms
- Earless seal
- True seal
- Phocid seal
Antonyms
- Eared seal
- Otariid (seal from the family Otariidae, e.g., sea lion, fur seal)
Related Phrases/Compounds
- Hair seal population: Refers to the group of these animals in a specific area.
- The hair seal population in this region is declining.
- Hair seal coat: Refers specifically to the animal's fur.
- The hair seal's coat provides insulation in cold water.
Noun
-
any of several seals lacking external ear flaps and having a stiff hairlike coat with hind limbs reduced to swimming flippers
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