Definition

Describing a type of bird that cannot fly and has a flat breastbone without a keel, which is a feature found in most flying birds.

Example

The ostrich is a well-known ratite that roams the savannas of Africa.

Conversation

Did you know that some birds are actually ratite?

Yeah, I've heard of them! They can't fly at all, right?

Exactly! They have this flat breastbone that makes it impossible to fly.

That's so interesting; I wonder how they've adapted to life on the ground.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A type of bird that cannot fly, such as an ostrich or emu, characterized by a flat breastbone and small wings.

Example

The ostrich is the largest ratite bird in the world.

Conversation

Did you know that the ostrich is a type of ratite bird?

Really? I had no idea what a ratite was until now.

Yeah, they are mostly flightless birds with unique characteristics.

Root Explanation

Ratite → The word 'ratite' comes from the Latin 'ratitas' (meaning flatness) derived from 'ratis' (meaning raft or flat). It refers to a group of flightless birds characterized by their flat breastbones, which lack the keel found in flying birds.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word for flatness ('ratitas') to remember that 'ratite' refers to birds that are flat and cannot fly.

Visually Confused Words