therian

noun

the·​ri·​an ˈthir-ē-ən How to pronounce therian (audio)
: any of a subclass (Theria) of mammals comprising the marsupials and the placental mammals
therian adjective

Examples of therian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While tracking these changes in the lifestyles of the therians would typically involve the investigation of full skeletons, Janis and her team were able to stick to the analysis of fossil fragments. Sam Walters, Discover Magazine, 2 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin Theria, from Greek thēria, plural of therion wild animal — more at treacle

First Known Use

1962, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of therian was in 1962

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Cite this Entry

“Therian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/therian. Accessed 18 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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