Definition of platypus
platypuses
alsoplatypi
play \-ˌpī, -ˌpē\: a small carnivorous aquatic monotreme mammal (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) of eastern Australia and Tasmania that has a fleshy bill resembling that of a duck, dense fur, webbed feet, and a broad flattened tail —called also duck-billed platypus
From the M-W Editors
Recent Examples of platypus from the Web
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There are three kinds of mammals: egg-laying monotremes such as the platypus, marsupials like kangaroos and opossums, and the majority—placental, or eutherian, mammals—including humans and about 4400 other mammal species.
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Doesn’t sound like a lion or a lamb, or even a platypus.
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The platypus's milk seeps through pores in its abdomen, not through teats as in all other mammals.
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Our favorite parts of the museum were: armadillo, platypus, owls, giraffe, two headed calf, and the open space for the 16 month old to run in.
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Illustration of platypus
PLATYPUS Defined for English Language Learners
platypus
playDefinition of platypus for English Language Learners
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: a small animal from Australia that has a bill like the bill of a duck, webbed feet, and a wide flat tail
PLATYPUS Defined for Kids
platypus
playDefinition of platypus for Students
: a small water-dwelling mammal of Australia that lays eggs and has webbed feet, dense fur, and a bill that resembles that of a duck
Learn More about platypus
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See words that rhyme with platypus Spanish Central: Translation of platypus Nglish: Translation of platypus for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about platypus
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