saurischian
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /sɔːˈrɪskiən/
KK: /sɔːˈrɪskiən/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a group of reptiles that includes all theropod dinosaurs and some other types of dinosaurs.
Example
The saurischian dinosaurs were known for their diverse sizes and shapes.
Conversation
Did you know that the saurischian dinosaurs were among the largest ever to roam the Earth?
Really? I always thought the herbivores were smaller than the carnivores.
Actually, some of the biggest ones, like the Brachiosaurus, were saurischian herbivores.
That's fascinating! I need to read more about them.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
reptilian
dinosaurian
lizardlike
Antonyms
avian
mammalian
terrestrial
noun
Definition
A type of dinosaur that belongs to the order Saurischia, characterized by a pelvic structure similar to that of modern reptiles, which includes both herbivorous and carnivorous species.
Example
The T. rex is a well-known example of a saurischian dinosaur.
Conversation
Did you know that the saurischian dinosaurs were the ancestors of modern birds?
Really? I had no idea they were related like that!
Yeah, it's fascinating how they evolved over millions of years.
Root Explanation
Saurischian → It is formed from "sauros" (from Greek, meaning lizard) and "-ichian" (a suffix used in taxonomy to denote a group or class). The term "saurischian" refers to a group of dinosaurs that are lizard-hipped, distinguishing them from other types of dinosaurs.
Memory Tip
Think of 'sauros' meaning lizard, which helps you remember that 'saurischian' refers to lizard-hipped dinosaurs.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.