diapsid
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //daɪˈæpsɪd//
KK: /daɪˈæpsɪd/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a group of reptiles that have two pairs of openings in their skulls, which includes crocodiles and some other reptiles.
Example
The diapsid lineage includes many modern reptiles and birds.
Conversation
Did you know that some reptiles are classified as diapsid?
Really? I had no idea there were different types of reptiles like that.
Yeah, it’s fascinating how diapsid reptiles have unique features in their skulls.
That makes sense! I should read more about them.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
reptilian
saurian
crocodilian
Antonyms
mammalian
avian
amphibian
noun
Definition
A type of reptile that has a skull with two pairs of openings on the sides, which includes animals like lizards, snakes, crocodiles, dinosaurs, and pterosaurs.
Example
The diapsid lineage includes many modern reptiles and birds.
Conversation
Did you know that a diapsid is a type of reptile with two pairs of temporal openings in its skull?
Really? I had no idea there were different types of reptiles like that.
Yeah, it includes lizards, snakes, and even dinosaurs!
Root Explanation
Diapsid → It is formed from "dia-" (meaning through or across) and "apsis" (from Greek "apsis", meaning arch or loop). The term refers to reptiles characterized by two temporal fenestrae (openings) in the skull, which are situated across the skull's arch.
Memory Tip
Think of 'through' ('dia-') and 'arch' ('apsis') to remember that diapsids have two openings across their skull structure.
Visually Confused Words
diopside
didepsid