Definition

Proper noun: * Family Dromaeosauridae: A taxonomic family of swift-running, bipedal, carnivorous theropod dinosaurs, characterized by a large, sickle-shaped claw on the second toe of each foot. They are commonly known as "raptors."

Usage

• This term is used in scientific and paleontological contexts to classify a specific group of dinosaurs.
• It functions as a singular proper noun, referring to the family as a whole unit.

Examples

• Scientific Classification: "The genus belongs to the family Dromaeosauridae."
• Descriptive Context: "Fossil evidence suggests that the family Dromaeosauridae was highly successful during the Cretaceous period."
• Comparative Analysis: "Researchers compared the bone structure of this new specimen to other members of the family Dromaeosauridae."

Advanced Usage

• Phylogenetic Context: The term is used when discussing evolutionary relationships. For example: "The family Dromaeosauridae is part of the clade Eumaniraptora, which includes birds."

Variants and Related Words

• Dromaeosaurid (n., adj.): A member of the Dromaeosauridae family; or, relating to this family.
  • Example (noun): "The newly discovered fossil is a dromaeosaurid."
  • Example (adjective): "The dromaeosaurid claw was its primary weapon."
• Dromaeosaur (n.): A less formal term for any dinosaur within the Dromaeosauridae family.
  • Example: "Deinonychus is a well-known dromaeosaur."

Synonyms

• Raptors (n., informal): A common, informal name for dinosaurs of this family, popularized by media.
  • Example: "The film depicted raptors as highly intelligent pack hunters."

Different Meanings

• This term has a single, specific meaning in scientific taxonomy. It does not have common alternative definitions outside paleontology.

Noun

1. swift-running bipedal dinosaurs