apteryx

[ap-tuh-riks]

noun

1. kiwi.

apteryx

/ ˈæptərɪks /

noun

1. another name for kiwi

Word History and Origins

Origin of apteryx¹

1805–15; < New Latin: the genus name, equivalent to Greek a- a- ⁶ + -pteryx, adj. use of ptéryx wing

Word History and Origins

Origin of apteryx¹

C19: from New Latin: wingless creature; see _apterous

Example Sentences

Among birds, the emeu, the cassowary, and the apteryx are species rapidly vanishing; amongst quadrupeds, the kangaroo—the platypus: others slowly, but not less surely.

From Project Gutenberg

A pollex is wanting, as in the cassowary, emeu and apteryx, while it is impossible to say whether remiges are represented or not.

From Project Gutenberg

In short, the British Innkeeper, as these writers represent him, figures as a sort of human apteryx, who supports himself entirely by the length of his bill.

From Project Gutenberg

Allied to these are the four species of Kiwi or apteryx, still existing there.

From Project Gutenberg

It is this bird which is also known under the name of the "apteryx."

From Project Gutenberg