DictionarypodMarine animal group
noun

pod

A group of whales, dolphins, or similar animals.

A pod of dolphins swims alongside the boat this morning.

Etymology

Pod has an established use for a group of marine mammals. Its origin in this grouping sense is uncertain, so a connection with a seed pod should not be treated as proved.

More examples

  • We spotted a pod of whales near the island.
  • Orcas often hunt together in pods.
  • The young dolphin stays close to the rest of its pod.

Forms

pod · pods

Similar words

school
Usually describes fish, but can also describe dolphins or whales.
herd
A broader animal-group term, used especially for large land mammals.