Wal'rus, n.

(wŏl'rus) (Synop., §130), n. [D. walrus, from wal, in walvisch, a whale, and ros, a horse, Ger. wallrosz, walrosz, wallrusz, Dan. valros, Sw. vallross, Norw. kvalros.] (Zoöl.) An aquatic mammal (Trichechus rosmarus), resembling the seal, and allied to it;—called also morse, and sea-cow. It has long canine teeth, used for locomotion and defense, and feeds upon sea-weed and smaller marine animals. Its flesh is eaten, and the skin and ivory are highly valued. It is gregarious in its habits.