Definition

Referring to animals that are not part of the mammal class, which includes creatures like reptiles, birds, and amphibians.

Example

The nonmammalian species in the zoo include reptiles and birds.

Conversation

Did you know that some reptiles are nonmammalian?

Really? I always thought reptiles were just another type of mammal.

Nope! They belong to a completely different category.

That’s interesting! I should learn more about nonmammalian species.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonmammalian → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "mammalian" (from Latin "mammalis", meaning of the breast, referring to mammals). The word "nonmammalian" describes organisms that are not mammals.

Memory Tip

Think of 'non-' meaning not, and 'mammalian' referring to mammals — so nonmammalian means not a mammal.

Visually Confused Words