Definition

Noun: - A large species of pelagic (open-ocean) shark, Carcharhinus longimanus, characterized by its long, paddle-like pectoral fins and the distinctive white or mottled white tips on its dorsal fin, tail fin, and often its pectoral fins. It is widely distributed in tropical and warm-temperate seas worldwide and is historically considered one of the most dangerous sharks to humans.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The oceanic whitetip shark is often seen far from land in the open ocean.
  • Divers should exercise caution in areas known for oceanic whitetip sharks.
  • Researchers are studying the declining population of the oceanic whitetip shark.

Advanced Usage

• "to encounter an oceanic whitetip shark": to come across this shark species, often implying a notable or potentially dangerous meeting in its natural habitat.
  • Few experiences are as awe-inspiring for a marine biologist as to encounter an oceanic whitetip shark in the deep blue.

Variants and Related Words

• Whitetip shark: A common shortened name, though this can also refer to the smaller reef whitetip shark (). Context usually clarifies the species.
• Carcharhinus longimanus: The scientific (Latin) name for the species.

Synonyms

• Longimanus: A shorthand derived from its scientific name, used primarily in scientific or technical contexts.

Related Phrases

• Pelagic shark: A general term for sharks that live in the open ocean, which includes the oceanic whitetip.
• Apex predator: A top predator in its ecosystem, a role the oceanic whitetip shark often fills in the open ocean.

Noun

1. large deep-water shark with white-tipped dorsal fin; worldwide distribution; most dangerous shark