rockhopper

noun

rock·​hop·​per ˈräk-ˌhä-pər How to pronounce rockhopper (audio)
: a small penguin (Eudyptes chrysocome) with a short thick bill and a yellow crest

Examples of rockhopper in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Secrets of the Penguins captured on film a mixed-species penguin couple consisting of a female rockhopper and a male macaroni penguin. Kelli Bender, People.com, 24 Apr. 2025 Across extremely varied and challenging environments, the intricate stories of penguin species—such as rockhoppers, gentoos, macaronis and Magellanic—are unveiled. Laura Manske, Forbes.com, 19 Apr. 2025 Travelers may see a variety of penguins including Adélie, emperor, chinstrap, king, rockhopper, gentoo and macaroni. Judy Koutsky, Forbes.com, 29 Mar. 2025 The clip continues with dynamic shots of the numerous penguin species featured in the series, including Gentoo and rockhopper penguins, while Lively recites the birds' achievements. Kelli Bender, People.com, 12 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rockhopper

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rockhopper was in 1875

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Cite this Entry

“Rockhopper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rockhopper. Accessed 3 May. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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