stingray

noun

sting·​ray ˈstiŋ-ˌrā 

: any of numerous rays (as of the family Dasyatidae) with one or more large sharp barbed dorsal spines near the base of the whiplike tail capable of inflicting severe wounds

Illustration of stingray

Examples of stingray in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The celebration featured balloon arches, a dessert wall and a tide pool filled with stingrays, starfish and a bamboo shark. —Raven Brunner, Peoplemag, 28 July 2024

All fabrics used in the trend-forward collection, which spans denim that mimics the look and texture of stingray, velvet and corduroy to clear glass-like coated denim, use Re&Up’s recycled cotton and polyester. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 9 Sep. 2024

Thriving for more than five millennia, the barrier reef is a haven for captivating ecosystems, including over 165 species of reef fish found nowhere else on Earth, as well as dolphins, sea turtles, stingrays, and the majestic Napoleon wrasse. —Sandra MacGregor, Forbes, 5 Sep. 2024

The handle was swathed in textile and the skin of a stingray—commonly applied to Japanese sword handles for better grip because of its rough texture. —Sonja Anderson, Smithsonian Magazine, 3 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1624, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

stingray

noun

sting·​ray ˈstiŋ-ˌrā 

: any of numerous rays that have one or more large sharp stinging spines near the base of the whiplike tail

Medical Definition

stingray

noun

sting·​ray

ˈstiŋ-ˌrā also -rē

: any of numerous large flat cartilaginous fishes (order Rajiformes and especially family Dasyatidae) with one or more large sharp barbed dorsal spines near the base of the whiplike tail capable of inflicting severe wounds