Definition

Noun: 1. A taxonomic order of large, flightless birds: "Order Struthioniformes" is the scientific classification for a group of ratite birds, primarily comprising ostriches and their extinct relatives. This order is characterized by features such as a flat breastbone without a keel, adapted for running rather than flight. * Note: In modern taxonomy, this order is sometimes considered to contain only the ostrich family (Struthionidae), with other ratites like emus and rheas placed in separate orders.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The ostrich is the sole living representative of the order Struthioniformes.
  • Fossil evidence places several extinct, large flightless birds within the order Struthioniformes.
  • In our study of avian evolution, we examined the skeletal structure characteristic of the order Struthioniformes.

Advanced Usage

• "To be classified under/in the order Struthioniformes": to be placed within this specific taxonomic group.
  • The newly discovered fossil species appears to be classified under the order Struthioniformes.

Variants and Related Words

• Struthioniform (adj): Of or relating to the order Struthioniformes.
  • The museum displayed a collection of struthioniform fossils.
• Struthio (n): The genus within Struthionidae that contains the ostrich species.
• Ratite (n/adj): A broader descriptive term for flightless birds with a flat breastbone, which includes members of Struthioniformes and other orders like Rheiformes (rheas) and Casuariiformes (emus, cassowaries).

Synonyms

• Ostrich order: A common, less formal name for this taxonomic group.

Related Terms (Scientific Context)

• Paleognathae (n): The infraclass that contains all ratite birds, including Struthioniformes.
• Neognathae (n): The infraclass containing all other modern birds, which is the sister group to Paleognathae.

Noun

1. a ratite bird order: ostriches and related extinct birds; known from the Pleistocene onward