in zoology, a genus of quadrupeds belonging to the order of bruta. There are no fore-teeth in either jaw; the dog-teeth in the upper jaw are solitary; the lips are doubled; and in place of the two hind legs, they have a broad fleshy tail or fin. There are two species, viz. 1. The rosmarinus, morse, sea-horse, or wall-rose, has the dog-teeth of the upper-jaw protruded out of the mouth. This animal is found in the ocean, within the polar circle. It grunts like a hog, and is about the size of a bull. 2. The monatus, or sea-cow, has the dog-teeth not protruded. It is found in the American and Indian ocean, principally at the mouths of rivers. It feeds upon sea-weeds, and is about twelve feet long. The females have, between the pectoral fins, two large, round, and fair breasts; and both sexes have the parts of generation, and the navel, perfectly resembling those of the human species: there is no doubt but all the fables concerning mermaids, mermen, and syrens, took their rise from an imperfect view of this animal.