Noun
/bʊl siːl/
A "bull seal" refers specifically to a male seal, particularly in the context of species such as the Northern Elephant Seal or other pinnipeds. The term emphasizes the sex of the animal, as male seals typically exhibit sexual dimorphism, meaning they have distinct physical characteristics compared to females, often being larger and having more pronounced features.
The usage of "bull seal" is more common in scientific, biological, or environmental contexts, often in reference to behaviors, breeding, or the social structure of seal colonies. While it is used in written reports or articles about marine biology, it may also arise in spoken conversations, especially among those interested in marine life.
The bull seal was spotted on the rocky shore, basking in the sun.
Translation: El foca macho fue avistado en la costa rocosa, tomando el sol.
Researchers studied the mating habits of the bull seal during the breeding season.
Translation: Los investigadores estudiaron los hábitos de apareamiento de la foca macho durante la temporada de cría.
A group of bull seals gathered on the beach, competing for dominance.
Translation: Un grupo de focas machos se reunió en la playa, compitiendo por el dominio.
The term "bull seal" does not have widely recognized idiomatic expressions associated with it due to its specific and scientific context. However, seals in general are often invoked in idioms that relate to the ocean or nature.
"He was as lazy as a bull seal on a sunny day."
Translation: "Él era tan perezoso como una foca macho en un día soleado."
"Just like a bull seal guarding its territory, he wouldn't let anyone near his space."
Translation: "Al igual que una foca macho defendiendo su territorio, no dejaría que nadie se acercara a su espacio."
"The bull seal's roar echoed across the waters, signaling its dominance."
Translation: "El rugido de la foca macho resonó a través de las aguas, señalando su dominio."
The term "bull seal" likely comes from the combination of the word "bull," which has Old English origins referring to a male animal, and "seal," derived from the Old English "seolh." The use of "bull" in this context distinguishes male seals from females and emphasizes their role in reproductive behaviors.
In summary, the term "bull seal" relates to male seals within ecological or biological discussions, garnering its usage primarily in scientific literature, with some idiomatic uses to convey characteristics of these animals.