Definition

A type of extinct animal that resembled a sheep and belonged to a group of hoofed mammals that lived in North America during ancient times.

Example

Fossils of oreodonts have been found in many parts of North America, showing how widespread they were.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of an oreodont?

No, I haven't! What is it?

It's an extinct animal that was about the size of a sheep.

That's really interesting! I love learning about prehistoric creatures.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Oreodont** → The word is derived from the Greek roots "oros" (meaning mountain) and "odous" (meaning tooth). Oreodonts were a group of extinct herbivorous mammals that had teeth adapted for grazing, often found in mountainous regions. Thus, the term refers to these creatures with 'mountain teeth'.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mountain' ('oros') and 'tooth' ('odous') to remember that 'oreodont' refers to a creature with teeth suited for grazing in mountainous areas.

Visually Confused Words