ScienceAugust 15, 2026

cynodont

SY-nuh-dont

Definition

An extinct member of a group of therapsids that were the ancestors of modern mammals, characterized by their specialized teeth and mammal-like skeletal features.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'kyn-' meaning 'dog' and 'odont-' meaning 'tooth,' referring to the characteristic dog-like or differentiated teeth found in these fossils.

In the news

The article discusses a specific fossilized cynodont, Chiniquodon theotonicus, to show that the mammalian trait of giving birth to live young originated much earlier than previously thought.

Memories Mysteriously Survive After Brain Shutdown, And Scientists Don’t Know Why

Read the full article ↗

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