archeopteryx

/ɑrkiˈɒptərɪks/

Definitions

1. noun

A prehistoric bird that had characteristics of both birds and reptiles, known for being one of the earliest known transitional fossils between dinosaurs and modern birds.

“The discovery of the archeopteryx was a major breakthrough in the field of paleontology, revealing a link between dinosaurs and birds.”

2. proper noun

A genus of transitional fossils between dinosaurs and modern birds, characterized by its unique combination of reptilian and avian features.

“The archeopteryx is a significant find in the study of evolutionary biology, showcasing the intermediate stage between reptiles and birds.”

Synonyms

  • theropod
  • transitional fossil

Antonyms

  • modern bird
  • reptile