a cetacean of the genus delphinus and allied genera (esp. d. delphis); the true dolphin.-the coryphaena hippuris, a fish of about five feet in length, celebrated for its surprising changes of color when dying. it is the fish commonly known as the dolphin. see coryphaenoid.-a mass of iron or lead hung from the yardarm, in readiness to be dropped on the deck of an enemy's vessel.-a kind of wreath or strap of plaited cordage.-a spar or buoy held by an anchor and furnished with a ring to which ships may fasten their cables.-a mooring post on a wharf or beach.-a permanent fender around a heavy boat just below the gunwale.-in old ordnance, one of the handles above the trunnions by which the gun was lifted.-a small constellation between aquila and pegasus. see delphinus, n., 2.