pygmy right whale

noun

: a small, uncommon baleen whale (Caperea marginata) of chiefly temperate waters of the southern hemisphere

Note: While closely related to the right whales, the pygmy right whale is classified in its own family (Neobalaenidae).

Word History

First Known Use

1922, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pygmy right whale was in 1922

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Dictionary Entries Near pygmy right whale

pygmy rattler

pygmy right whale

pygmy rose

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Cite this Entry

“Pygmy right whale.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pygmy%20right%20whale. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

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