monk seal
Definition
A monk seal is a member of the genus Monachus in the family Phocidae (true seals), distinguished by their rounded heads, short flippers, and sparse pelage that vaguely resembles a monk's hooded robe.
There are two extant species: the Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi), critically endangered and native to the Pacific, and the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), also endangered and found in the Atlantic and Mediterranean.
Examples
The monk seal beached itself for a nap, embodying peak monastic chill in a world of hyperactive dolphins.
Tourists mistook the monk seal for a furry beach bum meditating on life's currents.
While sea lions juggle fish for applause, the monk seal just vibes in silent enlightenment.
Conservationists deployed buoys to protect the monk seal from speedboats, lest its zen be rudely interrupted.