Synonyms for

Whaling

Verb / ˈweɪlɪŋ / / ˈhweɪlɪŋ / Another word for whaling — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Whaling refers to the hunting of whales, typically for meat, oil, or blubber.

Synonyms & similar words

whale Harpooning Cetology Sealing Fishing Hunting Trapping Slaughtering Butchering Processing Hauling Extracting

Synonyms by register

Formal

cetacean hunting marine mammal harvesting

Informal

whale hunting

Literary

leviathan pursuit great fish chase

Antonyms

conservation protection preservation animal welfare eco-friendliness

Common collocations

  • illegal whaling
  • commercial whaling
  • subsistence whaling
  • anti-whaling movement
  • whaling industry
  • whaling ban
  • whaling station

Word family

noun whaling
verb whale

Usage note

Whaling refers specifically to the hunting of whales. It often carries negative connotations due to ethical concerns and the endangered status of many whale species.

Example sentences

  1. Whaling has been a traditional way of life for some indigenous communities.
  2. The whaling industry was at its peak in the 19th century.
  3. Many countries have now banned whaling due to conservation concerns.
  4. Whaling was once a major industry in New England.
  5. Whaling ships were equipped with harpoons and other whaling gear.

Quotes

  • "I have never yet heard of a murderer who was not afraid of a ghost." - Herman Melville, Moby Dick
  • "It is not down in any map; true places never are." - Herman Melville, Moby Dick
  • "The whale is harpooned, but still in soundings." - Herman Melville, Moby Dick

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