Definition

Noun: 1. A small Arctic whale (Monodon monoceros): A medium-sized toothed whale that lives year-round in the Arctic waters around Greenland, Canada, and Russia. It is known for the distinctive long, straight, helical (spiral) tusk that projects from the upper left jaw of most males and some females.

Usage and Examples

• The narwhal is sometimes called the "unicorn of the sea" because of its long, spiral tusk.
• Scientists study the narwhal's tusk to learn more about the Arctic marine environment.
• A pod of narwhals was spotted in the icy fjord.

Advanced Usage

• "Narwhal tusk": This specific term refers to the iconic tooth, which is actually an elongated canine tooth. It can grow up to 3 meters (nearly 10 feet) long.
  • The narwhal tusk is filled with sensitive nerve endings, suggesting it is a sensory organ.

Variants and Related Words

• Narwhale: An alternate, less common spelling of "narwhal."

Synonyms

• Arctic whale: A general descriptive term.
• Sea unicorn: A poetic or colloquial name referencing the mythical unicorn.

Notes on Meaning

The word narwhal refers specifically to the whale species Monodon monoceros. Its primary and most distinguishing characteristic is the long, spiral tusk found primarily on males. The tusk's exact function is still debated but may be used for sensing changes in the environment, for display, or for competition between males.

Noun

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