Definition

A type of very large bird that could not fly and lived in Madagascar a long time ago.

Example

The aepyornis was one of the largest birds to ever exist, towering over its contemporaries.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about the aepyornis?

Yeah, it's that giant bird from Madagascar, right?

Exactly! It's fascinating how something so big could go extinct.

I know! I wonder what their habitat was like back then.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Aepyornis is derived from the Greek roots "aepy" (from "aepus", meaning high or lofty) and "ornis" (meaning bird). The word refers to a bird that was notably large or high in stature, specifically the extinct elephant bird of Madagascar.

Memory Tip

Imagine a bird that is 'high' ('aepy') and 'lofty' — that's why 'aepyornis' refers to a very large bird.

Visually Confused Words