manta ray

noun

Synonyms of manta raynext
: devil ray
especially : a ray (Manta birostris) that averages 22 feet (6.7 meters) in width with a weight reaching 3000 pounds (1361 kilograms)

Illustration of manta ray

Illustration of manta ray

Synonyms of manta ray

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Examples of manta ray in a Sentence

the manta ray blended in beautifully with the sandy ocean floor
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Farah Hamdan is the resident manta ray and marine ecologist, and Emily Hoad is the assistant project manager in the Raa Atoll. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Aug. 2026 Dolphins, dugongs, several species of sharks, and manta rays measuring up to 10 feet across also inhabit the park’s waters. — Sarah Bruning, Travel + Leisure, 27 Aug. 2026 The film also traces Kennedy’s redemption from a troubled past that included the Hells Angels and time in prison, while highlighting the growing threats facing manta rays and the urgency of protecting them. — Maya Santiago, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Aug. 2026 Silky sharks have also been observed scraping against manta rays near Malpelo Island off Colombia. — Melissa Cristina Márquez, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for manta ray

Word History

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of manta ray was in 1951

Rhymes for manta ray

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Browse Nearby Words

man-tailored
manta ray
manteau
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Cite this Entry

“Manta ray.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/manta%20ray. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

manta ray

noun
man·​ta ray
ˈmant-ə-
: any of several extremely large rays that are widely distributed in warm seas and have enlarged pectoral fins resembling wings

called also devilfish, manta

More from Merriam-Webster on manta ray

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about manta ray

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