ornithischian
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˌɔrnɪˈθɪskiən/
KK: /ɔrnɪˈθɪskiən/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a group of dinosaurs known for their bird-like features, which includes various species that walked on two or four legs.
Example
The ornithischian dinosaurs were known for their unique hip structure and diverse adaptations.
Conversation
Did you know that the ornithischian dinosaurs were all herbivores?
Really? I thought some of them were carnivores.
Nope, they primarily ate plants, which is pretty interesting.
That makes sense! I guess their body structure suited a plant-based diet.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
birdlike
avian
fowl
Antonyms
reptilian
mammalian
amphibian
noun
Definition
A type of dinosaur that belongs to the order Ornithischia, characterized by a pelvic structure similar to that of birds and typically herbivorous in nature.
Example
The ornithischian dinosaurs, like the stegosaurus, were known for their unique body structures and herbivorous diets.
Conversation
Did you know that the ornithischian dinosaurs were mostly herbivores?
Really? I didn't know that! What are some examples?
Well, types like the stegosaurus are part of that group.
Root Explanation
Ornithischian → It is formed from "ornitho-" (from Greek "ornithos", meaning bird) and "ischian" (from Greek "ischion", meaning hip or pelvis). The term refers to a group of dinosaurs characterized by their bird-like hips.
Memory Tip
Think of 'bird' ('ornitho-') to remember that 'ornithischian' refers to dinosaurs with bird-like hips.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.