WHALE BONE Meaning and
Definition
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Whale bone refers to the skeletal structures found in the mouths of certain species of whales, specifically the baleen whales. It is also known as baleen. Unlike toothed whales, which have teeth, baleen whales have long, comb-like plates called baleen, made from a substance similar to keratin. These plates typically hang from the upper jaw of the whale and serve as a filter-feeding apparatus.
The term "whale bone" may also refer to the material traditionally derived from the baleen of whales, extensively used by humans for various purposes. Historically, whale bone was highly prized for its flexibility and strength, making it suitable for manufacturing a wide range of items, such as corsets, hoop skirts, umbrellas, and various tools. However, in modern times, due to increasing international regulations on whaling and the conservation of marine species, the use of whale bone has significantly declined and alternative materials are commonly employed.
From a biological perspective, whale bone is an essential adaptation of baleen whales, allowing them to filter large volumes of water while feeding on tiny plankton and krill. The flexibility of the plates allows the whales to expand and contract their mouths, filtering out their prey efficiently. While the term "whale bone" may encompass both the physical structures found in the mouths of these whales and the derived material, the primary scientific use often refers to the baleen plates themselves.
Etymology of WHALE BONE
The word "whale bone" has a straightforward etymology, derived from the combination of two words: "whale" and "bone".
- "Whale" originates from the Old English word "hwæl" or "hwal", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "hwalaz". This word is further linked to the Old Norse word "hvalr" and Old High German word "wal". Ultimately, the origin can be traced to the Proto-Indo-European root "kwal", meaning "to roll" or "to turn".
- "Bone" comes from the Old English word "bān", stemming from the Proto-Germanic word "bainam" and also connected to the Old Norse word "bein" and Old High German word "bein".
