\Man`a*tee"\, n. [Sp. manat['i], from the native name in
Hayti. Cf. {Lamantin}.] (Zo["o]l.)
Any species of {Trichechus}, a genus of sirenians; -- called
also{sea cow}. [Written also {manaty}, {manati}.]

Note: One species ({Trichechus Senegalensis}) inhabits the
      west coast of Africa; another ({T. Americanus})
      inhabits the east coast of South America, and the
      West-Indies. The Florida manatee ({T. latirostris}) is
      by some considered a distinct species, by others it is
      thought to be a variety of {T. Americanus}. It
      sometimes becomes fifteen feet or more in length, and
      lives both in fresh and salt water. It is hunted for
      its oil and flesh.