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

Then, when the younger kids start to miss their parents, Daniel and his platypus friend Jodi have to take on the role of older siblings to reassure the little ones. — Parents, 29 June 2026

The show itself, which also features a superspy platypus, maintains this sense of optimism and humor throughout. — Christian Holub, Entertainment Weekly, 21 June 2026

Egg-laying mammals, or the monotremes, which include the platypus and echidna, don’t. — Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026

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

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