dinosaur

The word “dinosaur” means one of the large reptiles that dominated the land during the Mesozoic Era, long before humans existed. In plain terms, an ancient extinct reptile — or, figuratively, something hopelessly out of date.

“Dinosaur” is pronounced DEYE-nuh-saw (/ˈdaɪnəsoɹ/ in IPA).

Here is “dinosaur” used in a sentence: “Fossilized dinosaur footprints were discovered near the riverbank.”

“Dinosaur” is a noun.

The word “dinosaur” dates back to around 1841 and comes from Greek. Coined in 1841-42 by the paleontologist Richard Owen from Greek roots meaning "terrible" and "lizard.".

“Dinosaur” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

“Dinosaur” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: one of the large reptiles that dominated the land during the Mesozoic Era, long before humans existed.

All dinosaurs were reptiles, but "reptile" is the broader category that also includes living animals like lizards, snakes, and crocodiles. "Dinosaur" refers specifically to the large reptiles that dominated the land during the Mesozoic Era, long before humans existed.

Figuratively, "dinosaur" describes a person, institution, or idea that is outdated and resistant to change, drawing on the image of a creature that failed to adapt and went extinct. It is often used somewhat critically, implying the thing is out of step with modern times.

It generally carries a mildly critical or dismissive tone, suggesting the person clings to outdated methods or ideas and resists change. Context matters, though, since it can also be used lightly or affectionately among friends.