Definition

A long-extinct bird from the Jurassic period that had features of both birds and reptiles, such as feathers, teeth, and a bony tail.

Example

The archaeopteryx is often considered a key species in the study of evolution between dinosaurs and modern birds.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the archaeopteryx?

Yeah, I read it's one of the first birds, right?

Exactly! It's fascinating how it had both bird and dinosaur traits.

Totally! It's like a missing link in our understanding of evolution.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Archaeopteryx is formed from "archaios" (meaning ancient) and "pteryx" (meaning wing). The word refers to an ancient winged creature, specifically a transitional fossil between dinosaurs and birds.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ancient' ('archaios') and 'wing' ('pteryx') to remember that archaeopteryx refers to an ancient winged creature.

Visually Confused Words