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Glite Dictionary
apteryx

apteryx

9.9
A small flightless bird from New Zealand that is active at night and has a long beak
  • noun
  • /ˈæptəˌrɪks/
translation icon : apteryx
  • Unlike most birds, the apteryx lays one of the largest eggs in proportion to its body size.

Examples

  • The apteryx is unique to New Zealand.

  • The apteryx is better known as the kiwi, New Zealand's national bird.

  • Conservation efforts aim to protect the dwindling population of the apteryx.

  • Have you ever seen an apteryx in the wild?

  • The apteryx is a unique bird that can only be found in New Zealand, known for its long neck and stout legs.

  • During the night, the apteryx forages for insects in the underbrush of New Zealand's forests.

  • The apteryx lays its eggs in a burrow, making it one of the most distinctive flightless birds in the world.

Synonyms

kiwi
vsapteryx
  • New Zealand
1 6.8

A night bird from New Zealand that cannot fly and has a long thin bill and short strong legs

focuses more on long neck and distinctive overall appearance

Compounds

genus Apteryx
  • Specialized
9.5

A group of flightless kiwi birds from New Zealand

Surface Forms

apteryx singular
apterixes plural

Etymology

Apteryx comes from the Greek parts a- ('without') and pteryx ('wing'), so it literally means 'without wing'. That is why apteryx is the scientific name for the kiwi, a small New Zealand bird that cannot fly and has very small wings.