[2] They are large, fast-swimming predatory fish found in oceans worldwide, though they prefer environments with colder water.

The name of the family is formed from the Greek word lamna, which means "fish of prey", and was derived from the Greek legendary creature, the Lamia.

[3] These sharks have pointed snouts, spindle-shaped bodies, and large gill openings.

The first dorsal fin is large, high, stiff and angular or somewhat rounded.

The fifth gill opening is in front of the pectoral fin and spiracles are sometimes absent.