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

Now, nearly 230 years after its initial discovery, the platypus continues to defy scientific expectations. —Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 20 Mar. 2026

The platypus has long been one of nature’s most bewildering creatures. —Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 20 Mar. 2026

The film follows a bear and his platypus assistant who are travelling through the galaxy in a spacecraft that looks like a dumpster. —Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 17 Feb. 2026

This category includes the platypus and four species of echidnas. —Kevin Omland, The Conversation, 9 Feb. 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
• pithecanthropus
• 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