Definition

A type of ancient fish that lived a long time ago, known for having a body covered in bony plates and lacking jaws.

Example

Scientists discovered fossils of an ostracoderm in the sediment layers of the ancient seabed.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of an ostracoderm?

No, I haven't! What is that?

It's actually a type of ancient fish that lived a long time ago.

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

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ostracoderm → It is formed from "ostrakon" (Greek, meaning shell) and "derma" (Greek, meaning skin). The word refers to a group of extinct fish characterized by their bony, shell-like skin.

Memory Tip

Think of 'shell' ('ostrakon') and 'skin' ('derma') to remember that ostracoderms are fish with a shell-like skin.

Visually Confused Words