Definition

Relating to or having a placenta, which is an organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy to provide nutrients and oxygen to a developing baby.

Example

Humans are classified as placental mammals because they give birth to live young that are nourished before birth through a placenta.

Conversation

Did you know that some animals are classified as placental?

Really? I always thought all mammals were the same.

Nope, placental mammals have a unique way of giving birth.

That's interesting! I need to learn more about animal classifications.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A type of mammal that gives birth to live young that have developed inside the mother's body, connected to her by a special organ called the placenta.

Example

Humans are classified as placental mammals because they give birth to fully developed babies.

Conversation

Did you know that a whale is a type of placental mammal?

Really? I always thought they were just big fish.

Nope, they actually belong to the group of placental animals that give live birth.

Root Explanation

Placental → It is formed from "placenta" (from Latin *placenta*, meaning cake or flat round mass) and the suffix "-al" (meaning pertaining to). The word "placental" refers to something that is related to or characteristic of the placenta, which is an organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'placenta' which refers to the organ that nourishes a developing baby, and remember that 'placental' means pertaining to that organ.

Visually Confused Words