Definition

Noun 1. A taxonomic family of flightless birds: The family Apterygidae is a biological classification that is coextensive with the order Apterygiformes. It contains the living species of kiwis.

Usage Notes

• This is a highly specific scientific term used in zoology and biological taxonomy.
• It is always treated as a singular noun (e.g., ).
• In formal writing, the family name is often italicized.

Examples

• The family Apterygidae is endemic to New Zealand.
• All extant members of the family Apterygidae are nocturnal.
• The kiwi bird belongs to the family Apterygidae.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic hierarchy, Apterygidae sits below the order Apterygiformes and above the genus .
• The term can be used in discussions of evolutionary biology, as in: "The family Apterygidae represents a distinct lineage of paleognathous birds."

Variants and Related Words

• Apterygiformes (n): The order to which this family belongs.
• Apteryx (n): The only genus within the family Apterygidae, comprising the kiwi species.
• Kiwi (n): The common name for any bird within the family Apterygidae.

Synonyms

• Kiwi family (common, non-scientific term)

Notes on Different Meanings

• This term has only one specific meaning in modern English: the scientific classification for kiwis. It is not used in general or figurative contexts.

Noun

1. coextensive with the order Apterygiformes