~ 1
■ noun ( plural same or ~s ) a very large marine mammal with a horizontal tail fin and a blowhole on top of the head for breathing. [Order Cetacea.]
Phrases
a ~ of a —— informal an exceedingly good example of a particular thing.
have a ~ of a time informal enjoy oneself very much.
Origin
OE hwæl , of Gmc origin.
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~ 2
■ verb informal, chiefly N. Amer. beat; hit.
Origin
C18: var. of wale .