ptero-

American  

1. a combining form meaning “wing,” “feather,” used in the formation of compound words.

   pterodactyl.

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ptero- British  

combining form

1. wing, feather, or a part resembling a wing

   pterodactyl

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Usage

What does ptero- mean? Ptero- is a combining form used like a prefix meaning “wing” or “feather.” It is often used in scientific terms, especially in zoology.Ptero- comes from the Greek pterón, meaning “wing” or “feather.” Here’s a word connection that may surprise you: the word helicopter also has a root in the Greek pterón. Discover why at our entry for the word.And, as it’s always worth noting, the p in ptero- is silent.What are variants of ptero-?When combined with words or word elements that begin with a vowel, ptero- becomes pter-, as in pteranodon (formed in New Latin).Corresponding forms of ptero- combined to the end of words are -pter and -pterous, which you can learn more about in our Words That Use articles for each form.Closely related to ptero- is pterygo-, connected to pterygoid, and pterido-, which is used for ferns.

Etymology

Origin of ptero-

< New Latin, combining form representing Greek pterón

Example Sentences

He stopped screaming long enough to see her, then veered his ptero toward the rooftop where she stood waving.

From Literature

Maybe the huge ptero would listen.

From Literature

She guided him to the ptero, which was nuzzling its fallen squadmate and stomping its feet.

From Literature

Magdalys laughed as Two Step hugged her and then two-stepped past to the ptero.

From Literature

“I mean, technically it’s a ptero not a dino,” Magdalys said with a wink.

From Literature