Ichthyosauria

plural noun

Ich·​thyo·​sau·​ria

: an order of Mesozoic marine reptiles most abundant in the Lias having an ichthyoid body, elongated snout, short neck, dorsal and caudal fins, limbs modified into paddles by the flattening of the bones, multiplication of the phalanges and addition of from one to four digits, eyes very large and protected by a ring of bony sclerotic plates, and numerous conical teeth set in grooves and adapted for catching fish

ichthyosaurian

¦⸗⸗⸗¦⸗rēən 

adjective or noun

ichthyosauroid

-ˌrȯid

adjective

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from ichthy- + -sauria

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now