ScienceAugust 16, 2026

archosauriforms

AR-kuh-SOR-uh-forms

Definition

A group of reptiles that includes the common ancestor of both crocodiles and dinosaurs, along with all of its descendants.

Etymology

The word is derived from the Greek 'archos' meaning 'ruler' (referencing their status as dominant reptiles) and 'sauros' meaning 'lizard', combined with the Latin suffix '-formis' meaning 'having the shape or form of'.

In the news

The article uses the term to categorize crocodiles and birds as members of the same evolutionary group that split into two distinct lineages roughly 250 million years ago.

Crocodiles can’t fly. Birds can. Scientists have finally figured out why

Read the full article ↗

Telangana Today

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