humpback
humpback Lexical Profile
humpback Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A large baleen whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) of the family Balaenopteridae found in oceans worldwide, characterized by exceptionally long pectoral fins, a knobbly head, a small dorsal fin set on a distinct hump, and complex vocal songs.
"During our boat tour in Alaska, a massive humpback breached right next to the vessel."
An excessive outward curvature of the upper spine, or a person having such a condition (now considered dated and offensive when referring to a person).
"Severe untreated osteoporosis can eventually cause a pronounced humpback in elderly patients."
North American The pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha), an anadromous fish of the family Salmonidae native to the northern Pacific Ocean, whose males develop a pronounced dorsal hump during the spawning season.
"Anglers along the Pacific Northwest coast caught several humpbacks during the late-summer salmon run."
• adjective
Having a rounded, arched, or humped back or upper surface.
"The narrow country lane crossed a steep humpback bridge over the canal."
Word Nuance & Usage
When referring to a person with a spinal curvature, 'humpback' is outdated and considered offensive; clinical terms like 'kyphosis' are preferred in modern usage.
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in the late 17th century as a compound of 'hump' (possibly from Low German 'hump', meaning a heap or thick piece) and 'back' (from Old English 'bæc').