dolphin

Definitions

• A carnivorous aquatic mammal in one of several families of order Cetacea, famed for its intelligence and occasional willingness to approach humans.
• A fish, the mahi-mahi or dorado, Coryphaena hippurus (Coryphaena hippurus), with a dorsal fin that runs the length of the body, also known for iridescent coloration.
• (heraldiccharge) A depiction of a fish, with a broad indented fin, usually embowed.
• The dauphin, eldest son of the kings of France.
• (history) A mass of iron or lead hung from the yardarm, in readiness to be dropped through the deck and the hull of an enemy's vessel to sink it.
• (nautical) A kind of wreath or strap of plaited cordage.
• (nautical) A spar or buoy held by an anchor and furnished with a ring to which ships may fasten their cables.
• A mooring post on a wharf or beach.
• A permanent fender around a heavy boat just below the gunwale.
• (military) One of the handles above the trunnions by which a gun was lifted.