platypus

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noun platy·pus \ ˈpla-ti-pəs , -ˌpu̇s \

Definition of platypus

plural platypuses also platypi 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

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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.

— elizabeth pennisi, Science | AAAS, "Digital reconstruction of ancient chromosomes reveals surprises about mammalian evolution," 19 June 2017
Doesn’t sound like a lion or a lamb, or even a platypus.

— james gorman, New York Times, "No Oxygen? The Naked Mole Rat Might Not Care," 20 Apr. 2017
The platypus's milk seeps through pores in its abdomen, not through teats as in all other mammals.

— National Geographic, "How the Venomous, Egg-Laying Platypus Evolved," 30 July 2016
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.

— jennifer d., WIRED, "No Bones About It, This Museum Is Hip," 13 Sep. 2011

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'platypus.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Origin and Etymology of platypus

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

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First Known Use: 1799

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PLATYPUS Defined for English Language Learners

platypus

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noun

Definition of platypus for English Language Learners

: 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

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noun platy·pus \ ˈpla-ti-pəs \

Definition 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

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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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