archaeopteryx

noun

Meaning

A genus of bird-like dinosaurs from the Late Jurassic period, characterized by wings, feathers, and a long bony tail.

Examples

  • The discovery of the first Archaeopteryx fossil in Germany provided crucial evidence for Darwin's theory of evolution.
  • Unlike modern birds, the Archaeopteryx possessed sharp teeth and a skeleton similar to that of a small theropod dinosaur.

Synonyms: dinosaur, fossil, avian, theropod