Synonyms for

Whales

Verb / weɪlz / / hweɪlz / Another word for whales — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Whales are large marine mammals that breathe air through blowholes on the top of their heads. They are known for their songs and their large size.

Synonyms & similar words

heavyweight whale giant hulk cetaceans narwhals porpoises dolphins orca cachalot grampus

Synonyms by register

Formal

cetaceans marine mammals

Informal

big fish sea giants

Literary

leviathans behemoths of the deep

Antonyms

minnows guppies sprats shrimps small fish

Common collocations

  • humpback whale
  • blue whale
  • sperm whale
  • killer whale
  • whale watching
  • whale shark
  • whale song
  • whale migration

Word family

noun whale
verb whale

Usage note

While 'whale' can be used informally to refer to something large, its primary meaning is the marine mammal. The verb 'to whale' can mean to hunt whales or to strike forcefully.

Example sentences

  1. Whales are the largest animals on the planet.
  2. Some whales eat krill, while others eat fish.
  3. Whales can hold their breath for a long time.
  4. Whales communicate with each other using songs.
  5. Whales migrate long distances every year.

Quotes

  • I'd rather be a whale. A graceful giant. Not a skittish prey animal.
  • A man may fish with the worm that hath eat of a king, and eat of the fish that hath fed of that worm.
  • In the ocean, where so many of the creatures that live there are endangered or threatened because of us, it's our job to protect them.

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