thecodont
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /θiːˈkoʊdɒnt/
KK: /ˈθiːkəˌdɒnt/
adjective
Definition
Referring to a type of animal whose teeth are set in sockets in the jaw, similar to how modern mammals have their teeth.
Example
The thecodont structure of the dinosaur's teeth allowed for better chewing and processing of food.
Conversation
Did you know that some ancient creatures had thecodont teeth?
Really? I didn't know that term before today.
Yeah, it's interesting how their teeth were structured.
For sure! I love learning about how different species evolved.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
socketed
anchored
rooted
Antonyms
loose
detached
unanchored
noun
Definition
An extinct group of early reptiles that had teeth set in sockets and are believed to be ancestors of dinosaurs and birds.
Example
The thecodont was an important part of the evolutionary history leading to modern reptiles.
Conversation
Did you know that some of the earliest reptiles were called thecodonts?
Really? I haven't heard of them before. What made them special?
They had teeth that were rooted in sockets, like modern mammals.
Root Explanation
The word 'thecodont' is formed from 'theco-' (from Greek 'theke', meaning sheath or case) and '-dont' (from Greek 'odous', meaning tooth). It refers to a type of reptile that has teeth set in sockets, resembling a sheath for the teeth.
Memory Tip
Think of 'theke' as a 'sheath' for teeth ('odont'), which helps you remember that 'thecodont' refers to creatures with teeth set in sockets.
Visually Confused Words
therodont
theriodont
secodont
mecodont
trichechodont
theriodonta