-pterous

American  

1. a combining form meaning “having wings” of the kind or number specified.

   dipterous.

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-pterous British  

combining form

1. indicating a specified number or type of wings

   dipterous

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Usage

What does -pterous mean? The combining form -pterous is used like a suffix meaning “having wings” of a certain number or type. It is often used in scientific terms, especially in zoology. Very occasionally, -pterous refers to fins.The form -pterous comes from the Greek pterón, meaning “feather” or “wing.” And yes, pterodactyl also comes from the Greek pterón. Find out the connection at our entry for the impressive name of this ancient winged reptile.Other combining forms closely related to -pterous include ptero-, pter-, and -pter. Discover their over-flapping—er, overlapping—senses at our Words That Use articles for the words. Also related to -pterous is pterygo-, connected to pterygoid, and pterido-, which is used for ferns.

Etymology

Origin of -pterous

< Greek -pteros, adj. derivative of pterón wing; -ous