n. The popular name of the cetaceous mammals of the family Delphinidæ and genus Delphinus, most of which are also known as and more frequently called porpoises, this word being interchangeable with dolphin.n. A general and popular name of fish of the family Coryphænidæ: so called from some con-fusion with the mammals of the same name.n. In Gr. antiquity, a ponderous mass of lead or iron suspended from a special yard on a naval vessel, and, if opportunity presented, let fall into the hold of a hostile ship to sink her by breaking through her bottom.n. Nautical: A spar or buoy made fast to an anchor, and usually supplied with a ring to enable vessels to ride by it.n. A mooring-post placed at the entrance of a dock.n. In early artillery, a handle cast solid on a cannon.n. [capitalized] In astronomy, an ancient northern constellation, Delphinus (which see).n. In architecture, a technical term applied to the pipe and cover at a source for the supply of water.n. In Christian archæol., an image or representation of a dolphin, constituting an emblem of love, diligence, and swiftness.n. Same as dauphin.n. In lumbering, a cluster of piles to which a boom is secured. [U. S.]n. Same as dolphin-fly.