great white shark
Definition
A large predatory shark species (Carcharodon carcharias) found in coastal waters worldwide, known for its massive size (up to 20 feet long), powerful jaws lined with serrated triangular teeth, and a white underbelly contrasting its gray back.
The apex ocean predator often sensationalized in media as a human hunter, though attacks are rare and usually cases of mistaken identity with seals.
Slang for a ruthless, dominant figure in business or competition, evoking the shark's fearsome reputation.
Examples
The great white shark glided silently past the cage, eyeing the diver like a picky food critic at a seafood buffet.
After surviving a close encounter with a great white shark, the surfer joked that he'd finally found the ocean's version of a bad blind date.
In boardrooms, he's known as the great white shark, devouring competitors' pitches with a smile sharper than his tie.
Tourists flock to see great white sharks breach off South Africa, turning a potential horror flick into Instagram gold.