noun

archeopteryx

ar-kee-OP-tuh-riks

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Archeopteryx (noun) means a fossil specimen of the ancient bird species that shows an early link between dinosaurs and birds. Example: “The museum's archeopteryx fossil shows clear impressions of feathers.”

noun

technical A fossil specimen of the ancient bird species that shows an early link between dinosaurs and birds.

"The museum's archeopteryx fossil shows clear impressions of feathers."

"Palaeontologists study the archeopteryx to understand how flight evolved."

"Only a handful of archeopteryx specimens have ever been found."

How to use archeopteryx

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishIt is the name given to fossils of one of the earliest known birds, which still shows dinosaur-like traits.

When to use it

This is a specialist term used mainly in palaeontology and natural history writing.

Memory tip

Break the word into its two halves, archeo- and -pteryx, to help remember both its spelling and its meaning.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

archeopteryx fossil archeopteryx specimen the discovery of archeopteryx

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “archeopteryx” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The museum's _____ fossil shows clear impressions of feathers.

Etymology

The word joins an English element meaning ancient or primitive, itself taken from Ancient Greek, with a Greek word for wing. Together they describe a primitive winged creature.

Origin: Ancient Greek

Synonyms

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archaeopteryx

Frequently asked questions

What is an archeopteryx?

It is a fossil specimen of Archaeopteryx lithographica, the earliest and most primitive bird known, and it shows features linking dinosaurs to modern birds.

Is archeopteryx a dinosaur or a bird?

It is treated as the earliest known bird, but it also shows dinosaur-like features, which is why it is seen as a transitional form.

How do you spell archeopteryx?

Both archeopteryx and archaeopteryx are used; archaeopteryx is the spelling used in the scientific species name Archaeopteryx lithographica.

What is the meaning of archeopteryx?

"archeopteryx" (noun) means a fossil specimen of the ancient bird species that shows an early link between dinosaurs and birds.