Definition

An extinct flying reptile that lived during the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, known for its small size and mostly tailless body.

Example

The pterodactyl soared through the sky, its wings spread wide as it glided above the landscape.

Conversation

Did you know that a pterodactyl is actually not a dinosaur?

Really? I always thought they were part of that group.

Yeah, they were flying reptiles from way before the dinosaurs.

That's so interesting! I need to read more about prehistoric creatures.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pterodactyl → It is formed from "ptero-" (from Greek "pteron", meaning wing) and "dactyl" (from Greek "daktylos", meaning finger). The word describes a creature with winged fingers, referring to the structure of its wings.

Memory Tip

Imagine a creature with 'wings' ('ptero-') that are like 'fingers' ('dactyl') — this helps you remember that a pterodactyl is a flying reptile with winged fingers.

Visually Confused Words