Lexic.us

Definition of Baleen

1. Noun. A horny material from the upper jaws of certain whales; used as the ribs of fans or as stays in corsets.

Definition of Baleen

1. n. Plates or blades of "whalebone," from two to twelve feet long, and sometimes a foot wide, which in certain whales (Balænoidea) are attached side by side along the upper jaw, and form a fringelike sieve by which the food is retained in the mouth.

Definition of Baleen

1. whalebone [n -S] - See also: whalebone

Medical Definition of Baleen

1. Plates or blades of "whalebone," from two to twelve feet long, and sometimes a foot wide, which in certain whales (Balaenoidea) are attached side by side along the upper jaw, and form a fringelike sieve by which the food is retained in the mouth. Origin: F. Baleine whale and whalibone, L. Balaena a whale; cf. Gr. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998)

Lexicographical Neighbors of Baleen

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