saurian
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈsɔː.ri.ən/
KK: /ˈsɔːr.i.ən/
adjective
Definition
Relating to or resembling lizards or reptiles.
Example
The museum displayed a fascinating exhibit on saurians and their habitats.
Conversation
Did you see that documentary about saurian creatures?
Yes, it was fascinating to learn about their evolution.
I never realized how much they resemble modern lizards.
Right? The saurian traits are so interesting to study.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
lizardlike
reptilian
squamate
Antonyms
amphibious
mammalian
avian
noun
Definition
A type of reptile that includes lizards and, in older classifications, also crocodiles and dinosaurs.
Example
The museum displayed a fossil of a large saurian from the age of dinosaurs.
Conversation
Did you know that some scientists believe birds are actually modern-day saurians?
That's interesting! I always thought dinosaurs were just ancient reptiles.
Yeah, and it makes sense since they share so many traits with lizards and other saurians.
Root Explanation
**Saurian** → It is formed from "sauros" (Greek, meaning lizard) and the suffix "-ian" (meaning relating to or characterized by). The word "saurian" refers to something that is characteristic of or relating to lizards or reptiles.
Memory Tip
Think of 'sauros' meaning lizard, and remember that 'saurian' describes something related to lizards or reptiles.
Visually Confused Words
isaurian
unsaurian
saturnian
taurian
suriana
sardian
saguran
gaurian