Definition

A type of reptile that belongs to a group including dinosaurs, pterosaurs, and crocodiles.

Example

The archosaur is an important part of the evolutionary history of reptiles.

Conversation

Did you know that the archosaur group includes dinosaurs and crocodiles?

Really? I had no idea they were related!

Yeah, it's fascinating how they share a common ancestor.

That makes sense; they do have similar features.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Archosaur is formed from "archo-" (from Greek "archos", meaning ruler or chief) and "saur" (from Greek "sauros", meaning lizard). The term refers to the group of reptiles that includes dinosaurs and crocodiles, essentially meaning 'ruling lizards'.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ruler' ('archo-') and 'lizard' ('saur') to remember that an archosaur is a 'ruling lizard', which includes dinosaurs and crocodiles.

Visually Confused Words