Animals & Nature
walrus
Computer-generated voice, not a recording. It may differ from the pronunciation guide.
In short
A walrus is a large Arctic marine mammal with long tusks and prominent whiskers. A walrus mustache is a thick, bushy mustache that hangs over the upper lip.
01 Meaning
What does walrus mean?
Meaning in context
A walrus mustache is named for its resemblance to the animal’s heavy, drooping whiskers.
Easy distinction
Walrus is an animal name and a style descriptor; context determines which meaning is intended.
02 Word origin
Where does it come from?
The English name developed through Dutch and Scandinavian forms; its deeper history is debated.
03 In context
How to use it in a sentence
“A walrus rested on the edge of the sea ice.”
“A walrus mustache is named for its resemblance to the animal’s heavy, drooping whiskers.”
Sources and updates
- walrus, Cambridge Dictionary. Checked October 20, 2026.
- walrus - Origin and history, Online Etymology Dictionary. Checked October 20, 2026.
- walrus, Wiktionary. Checked October 20, 2026.
Definitions and examples are written in our own words from the sources above. Published .