Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small, semi-aquatic, egg-laying mammal native to eastern Australia and Tasmania. It is characterized by a duck-like bill, a beaver-like tail, webbed feet, and dense fur. It is one of the few extant species of monotremes (mammals that lay eggs).

Usage

• The word "platypus" is used to refer specifically to this unique animal. It is a countable noun.
• Example: "We were lucky to see a platypus swimming in the creek."
• Example: "The platypus is an iconic Australian animal."

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in scientific and biological contexts to discuss mammalian evolution, venom, or electroreception, as the male platypus has venomous spurs on its hind legs.
• Example: "The platypus's electroreceptive bill allows it to hunt for prey in murky water."

Variants and Related Words

• Duck-billed platypus: A common alternative name that emphasizes its distinctive bill.
  • Example: "The duck-billed platypus is a fascinating creature."
• Ornithorhynchus anatinus: The scientific (binomial) name for the platypus.
• Monotreme: The order of egg-laying mammals to which the platypus belongs.

Synonyms

• Duckbill: An informal synonym, though less common than "platypus" or "duck-billed platypus."

Related Phrases

• Platypus bill: Refers specifically to the unique, sensitive snout of the animal.
  • Example: "The platypus bill is a highly specialized organ."
• Platypus venom: Refers to the venom produced by the male of the species.
  • Example: "Research into platypus venom could lead to new painkillers."

Related Idioms

• There are no common idioms specifically featuring the word "platypus." Its usage is almost exclusively literal, referring to the animal itself.

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