sea cow

noun

1. any sirenian, as the manatee or dugong.
2. Obsolete. the hippopotamus.

sea cow

noun

1. any sirenian mammal, such as a dugong or manatee
2. an archaic name for walrus

Word History and Origins

Origin of sea cow¹

First recorded in 1605–15

Example Sentences

Couldn't they understand the difference between the muscles of a hunting leopard and the bulk of a sea-cow?

From Project Gutenberg

This was the famous sea-cow described by the enthusiastic Steller, but long since extinct.

From Project Gutenberg

The upper part was calked with tallow of the sea-cow, the under with tar from the old hull.

From Project Gutenberg

While we lay here our Mosquito men went in their canoe and struck some sea-cow.

From Project Gutenberg

The few lines marked F represent the reflection of the sea-cow in the water.

From Project Gutenberg