duckbilled platypus

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Explanation of "Duckbilled Platypus"

Definition: A "duckbilled platypus" is a small animal that lives in water. It has a unique appearance with a broad, flat bill like a duck, a furry body, and webbed feet that help it swim. This creature is one of the few mammals that lay eggs, and it is found in Australia and Tasmania.

Usage Instructions:

• Part of Speech: Noun
• Context: You can use "duckbilled platypus" when talking about animals, specifically when discussing unique or unusual creatures.

Example Sentence:

• "The duckbilled platypus is known for its strange combination of features, including its bill and webbed feet."

Advanced Usage:

• In scientific discussions or when studying animal biology, you might say, "The duckbilled platypus is a fascinating example of convergent evolution, as it shares characteristics with both mammals and birds."

Word Variants:

• Plural Form: Duckbilled platypuses
• Scientific Name: Ornithorhynchus anatinus

Different Meanings:

• The term "platypus" alone can refer to the same animal, but it is important to use "duckbilled platypus" to emphasize its specific features.
• Platypus can also refer to the broader category of animals within the same family.

Synonyms:

• There are no direct synonyms for "duckbilled platypus," but it may sometimes be simply referred to as "platypus."

Related Terms:

• Monotreme: A type of egg-laying mammal, which includes the duckbilled platypus and echidnas.
• Aquatic: Relating to water; describing animals that live in or around water.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no widely recognized idioms or phrasal verbs specifically using "duckbilled platypus," but you might encounter phrases like "as rare as a platypus," implying something very unusual or rare.

Fun Fact:

The duckbilled platypus is unique because it is one of the only mammals that lays eggs instead of giving birth to live young.

Academic

Noun

1. small densely furred aquatic monotreme of Australia and Tasmania having a broad bill and tail and webbed feet; only species in the family Ornithorhynchidae

Synonyms

• platypus
• duckbill
• duck-billed platypus
• Ornithorhynchus anatinus