Monotreme

Pronunciation: /ˈmɑnəˌtrim/

Definitions of monotreme

noun a mammal of the order Monotremata, which includes the platypus and echidnas, that lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young

Example Sentences

A1 A monotreme is a type of mammal that lays eggs.

A2 Monotremes are unique mammals that include the platypus and echidna.

B1 Scientists study monotremes to learn more about their reproductive and evolutionary traits.

B2 The monotreme's ability to lay eggs and produce milk for their young is a fascinating biological adaptation.

C1 Monotremes are a small group of mammals that diverged from other mammals early in evolutionary history.

C2 The classification of monotremes as egg-laying mammals challenges traditional ideas about mammalian reproduction.

Examples of monotreme in a Sentence

formal The monotreme is a unique type of mammal that lays eggs instead of giving birth to live young.

informal Did you know that the platypus is a type of monotreme?

slang That monotreme is one weird animal, laying eggs and all.

figurative Being a monotreme in a world of mammals can sometimes make you feel like the odd one out.

Grammatical Forms of monotreme

• past tense: monotremed
• plural: monotremes
• comparative: more monotreme
• superlative: most monotreme
• present tense: monotremes
• future tense: will monotreme
• perfect tense: have monotremed
• continuous tense: is monotreming
• singular: monotreme
• positive degree: monotreme
• infinitive: to monotreme
• gerund: monotreming
• participle: monotremer

Origin and Evolution of monotreme

First Known Use: 1797 year

Language of Origin: Greek

Story behind the word: The word 'monotreme' is derived from the Greek words 'monos' meaning single and 'trema' meaning hole or orifice, referring to the single opening for both excretion and reproduction found in monotremes.

Evolution of the word: The term 'monotreme' was first used in scientific literature in the late 18th century to describe a group of egg-laying mammals with unique reproductive and excretory systems. Over time, the word has become widely accepted in the field of biology to specifically refer to the platypus and echidna species.