Gastornis

noun

Gas·​tor·​nis

gaˈstȯrnə̇s

: a genus of large extinct birds (order Diatrymiformes) from the Eocene formations of the Paris basin that are similar and related to those of the genus Diatryma

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Gaston Planté †1889 French physician + Greek ornis bird

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!