Fippers vs Fins

[midwayman]

I know you're supposed to call them fin, but it got me thinking. Dont they call the appendages that propel sea mammals flippers? Since we are mammals and not fish, wouldnt it be more appropriate to call fins flippers?

flip·per Pronunciation Key (flpr) n.
1. A wide flat limb, as of a seal, whale, or other aquatic mammal, adapted for swimming.

Know its never going to change, but just thinking.... Or maybe there is a reason they're called fins I dont know about.

 

[HowardE]

fin 1 (fn) KEY

NOUN:
1.A membranous appendage extending from the body of a fish or other aquatic animal, used for propelling, steering, or balancing the body in the water.
2. Something resembling a fin in shape or function, as:
A fixed or movable airfoil used to stabilize an aircraft, missile, or projectile in flight.
A thin, usually curved projection attached to the rear bottom of a surfboard for stability.
A projecting vane used for cooling, as on a radiator or an engine cylinder.
See tail fin.
3. See flipper.

 

[Gary D.]

But when you silp something over an appendage it could be called a condom. AND they aren't going on my feet!
Gary D.

 

[Charlie99]

While you guys debate this, I'll just grab my flippers, goggles and oxygen tank and go diving.

 

[Bratface]

Flipper was a dolphin.

 

[Dive1Dennis]

Probably no good reason, but they are fins to me.
Flippers sounds juvenile....

 

[Dive1Dennis]

While you guys debate this, I'll just grab my flippers, googles and oxygen tank and go diving.

Don't forget your respirator. eyebrow

 

[terrasmak]

I call them both , and hear them called both doesnt really matter to me .

 

[Bratface]

Not that saying flippers is wrong, and not that it necessarily sounds juvenile...scuba divers just wear fins. It makes you sound like you are a by-stander. You know, one of those people who are in awe of what we do or else think we are crazy.

Yes, the misinformed always think we breathe oxygen. Once I was talking about going wreck diving with my non-diving friends at work. They were amazed at the amount of planning that it took and how much gear I owned. Yep, it's alot more than jumping off the boat.

 

[quarrydiver68]

Fins, fins, fins, and fins.