Synonyms for

Dolphin

Verb / ˈdɑ:lfʌn / Another word for dolphin — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a highly intelligent and social marine mammal with a streamlined body, typically gray in color, found in all the world's oceans

Synonyms & similar words

mahimahi dolphinfish porpoise orca whale mammal cetacean bottlenose spinner flipper Nemo

Synonyms by register

Formal

cetacean marine mammal

Informal

flippered friend sea pig

Literary

sea-horse oceanic dancer

Antonyms

land mammal terrestrial animal ground dweller earthbound creature

Common collocations

  • bottlenose dolphin
  • dolphin show
  • dolphin leap
  • dolphin swim
  • dolphin research
  • dolphin pod
  • dolphin behavior

Word family

noun dolphin
verb dolphin

Usage note

While 'dolphin' can sometimes be used metaphorically, it most commonly refers to the marine mammal. Be aware of the specific species if precision is required.

Example sentences

  1. The dolphin is known for its playful behavior.
  2. We saw a pod of dolphins swimming in the ocean.
  3. Dolphins communicate with each other using a series of clicks and whistles.
  4. Some people swim with dolphins as part of a tourist experience.
  5. Dolphins are often trained to perform tricks in water shows.

Quotes

  • "The dolphin's smile is the greatest deception. It creates the illusion that they're always happy." -Ric O'Barry
  • "When a dolphin wants to communicate with another dolphin, it doesn't just say it, it sings it." -Carol J. Adams
  • "The dolphin is an apt ambassador of the sea, as it is the most intelligent and sociable of all the aquatic creatures." -Peter Benchley

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