This species' genus name originates from xiphos , which is Greek for 'sword'. Cuvier's Beaked Whale is similar in stature and shape to other beaked whales, with small flippers and dorsal fin, and a stocky but compressed body. The beak is not set apart from the melon, and the mouthline is curved at the back, showing a hint of a 'grin'. Young are generally brown to grey, with a paler head and belly. With age, the head becomes mostly white, which is especially noticeable in males.
Scars give each individual a different appearance.
There are two teeth at the front of the lower jaw, and these erupt through the gum in males to become exposed when the mouth is closed. The maximum length documented so far has been 7m for males and 7.5m for females, while a female of 6.5m weighed in at just below 3 tonnes. Cuvier's Beaked Whale can be confused with the other species of beaked whales. However, experienced watchers may be able to distinguish it by looking for the sloping forehead, short beak, exposed tusks in adult males and the pale or white head. The blow is low and inconspicuous.