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

Phase 2 is the standing process with slightly longer prosthetics with no knee but with a longer and wider foot like a platypus. —Lexi Lane, PEOPLE, 2 May 2026

Here’s a breakdown of each of the platypus’s biological marvels, according to research. —Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2026

Every mammal gives birth to live young, except for a handful of egg-laying monotremes like the platypus. —Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 9 Apr. 2026

Dobson, a researcher at Ghent University, challenged that assumption using high-resolution microscopy to examine melanosomes in platypus hair. —Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 20 Mar. 2026

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

Rhymes for platypus

• blunderbuss
• octopus
• xenopus
• puss

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