whale tail

In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

An unintentional display of a thong above the waistband of trousers etc.

Register: slang

Where it’s used: Used American English

Examples

So, next time you see a mom with a "whale tail" peeking out of her pants while she puts in a car seat, remember, "You can't judge a book by its cover."

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

A kind of large automotive rear spoiler.

Register: slang

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “whale tail” mean?

An unintentional display of a thong above the waistband of trousers etc.

Is “whale tail” formal or informal?

whale tail is generally slang.