platypus

noun

platy·​pus ˈpla-ti-pəs  -ˌpu̇s 

plural platypuses also platypi ˈpla-ti-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

Illustration of platypus

Examples of platypus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The platypus is famously recognized for its wide range of zoological oddities. —Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 25 Sep. 2024

Other nocturnal mammals such as platypuses and flying squirrels also glow under UV light. —Byrodrigo Pérez Ortega, science.org, 14 Aug. 2024

For instance, monotremes such as the platypus and echidna belong to a unique and ancient class of mammals. —Gat Rauner, The Conversation, 13 Aug. 2024

The plan began after Australia's bushfires in 2019 and 2020 when the Taronga Zoo was asked to rescue platypuses caught in the fires. —Taylor Wilson, USA TODAY, 29 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek platypous flat-footed, from platys broad, flat + pous foot — more at place, foot

First Known Use

1799, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing platypus

• duck-billed platypus
• duckbill platypus

Kids Definition

platypus

noun

platy·​pus ˈplat-i-pəs  -ˌpu̇s 

plural platypuses also platypi -ˌpī 

-ˌpē

: a small water-dwelling egg-laying mammal of eastern Australia and Tasmania with a fleshy bill resembling that of a duck, webbed feet, and a broad flattened tail