Definition & Meaning of "manatee"

What is a "manatee"?

Manatees are large, slow-moving marine mammals that inhabit shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and rivers in tropical and subtropical regions. They have a plump, grayish-brown body with two flippers and a flat, paddle-shaped tail. Manatees are herbivorous, feeding on a variety of aquatic plants and grasses. They are known for their docile nature and are often referred to as "sea cows." Despite their large size, manatees are vulnerable to human activities such as boating and fishing, and are considered a threatened species.