Definition

An extinct group of large, primitive reptiles that lived during the Carboniferous and Permian periods, considered to be ancestors of modern reptiles.

Example

The cotylosaur was one of the earliest reptiles to adapt to life on land.

Conversation

Did you read that article about the cotylosaur?

Yeah, it's fascinating how they were among the first land vertebrates.

I never knew they had such massive bodies and short legs.

Right? It's amazing to think about how they adapted to their environment.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cotylosaur is formed from "cotyl" (from Greek "kotylē", meaning cup or hollow) and "saur" (from Greek "sauros", meaning lizard). The word refers to a type of reptile characterized by its cup-shaped hip structure, resembling a lizard.

Memory Tip

Think of 'cotyl' meaning a 'cup' shape and 'saur' meaning 'lizard' — this helps you remember that a cotylosaur is a lizard-like creature with a cup-shaped hip.

Visually Confused Words