sea-calf

A sea-calf rests on a rocky shore.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A marine mammal: "sea-calf" refers to a type of seal, specifically the common seal (Phoca vitulina) or other similar pinnipeds. It is an older, informal term for these animals, often used in historical or literary contexts.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The sailors spotted a sea-calf basking on the rocky shore. (A seal resting on the coast.)
  • In old tales, the sea-calf was sometimes mistaken for a mythical creature. (A seal in folklore.)

Advanced Usage

• "sea-calf" as a historical term: This word appears in older English texts, such as natural history writings from the 17th to 19th centuries, to describe seals before the modern term "seal" became standard.
  • The naturalist noted that the sea-calf is often found in northern waters. (A seal in scientific observations.)

Variants and Related Words

• Calf (n): the young of a cow or other large mammal, including seals.

  • The sea-calf mother nursed her pup on the ice. (A seal and its young.)

• Seal (n): the modern common term for marine mammals in the family Phocidae.

  • The seal (formerly called a sea-calf) is a skilled swimmer. (Current word for the animal.)

Synonyms

• Seal: the standard term for the animal.
  • The sea-calf is more commonly known simply as a seal.
• Pinniped: a broader scientific term for seals, sea lions, and walruses.
  • A sea-calf is a type of pinniped.

Related Idioms