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Definition of apteryx

apteryx

/ˈæp.tər.ɪks/
ap · ter · yx
Plural:apteryxes
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apteryx Lexical Profile

apteryx Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Any of several flightless, nocturnal birds of the genus Apteryx, endemic to New Zealand, characterized by a stout body, hair-like feathers, vestigial wings, and a long, slender bill.

Example

"The zoologist carefully observed the apteryx foraging for grubs in the dense native underbrush of the sanctuary."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for apteryx

Word Nuance & Usage

The term 'apteryx' is primarily used in scientific, taxonomic, or highly formal contexts; in everyday English, this flightless bird is almost exclusively referred to as the 'kiwi'.

• Rhymes for apteryx

• Nearby Words

aprium
apron
apsley
apteryx
apure
apurean
apurimac

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 19th century from Modern Latin, derived from the Greek 'a-' (without) and 'pterux' (wing), referring to the bird's flightless nature and lack of visible wings.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Apteryx. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/apteryx
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