Archelon – Definition & Meaning

Archelon is a term that is not commonly known, but it holds significant meaning in the world of science and paleontology. This term is used to describe a prehistoric sea turtle that existed during the Late Cretaceous period. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of Archelon, its origins, and its associations.

Definitions

Archelon is a term that refers to a genus of extinct sea turtles that lived during the Late Cretaceous period. These turtles were massive, with some specimens measuring up to 15 feet in length and weighing over 2,000 pounds. They had a unique shell structure that was flat and streamlined, allowing them to swim efficiently through the water.

Origin

The name Archelon is derived from the Greek words “arche” meaning “ancient” and “helon” meaning “turtle.” The first fossils of Archelon were discovered in Kansas in the late 1800s by a paleontologist named Othniel Charles Marsh. Since then, additional fossils have been found in various parts of North America, including South Dakota, Wyoming, and Texas.

Meaning in different dictionaries

Archelon is not a term that is commonly found in dictionaries. However, it can be found in some scientific or paleontological dictionaries. For example, the Oxford Dictionary of Zoology defines Archelon as “a genus of extinct sea turtles from the Late Cretaceous period, characterized by a flat, streamlined shell.”

Associations

Archelon is associated with the Late Cretaceous period, which lasted from around 100 to 66 million years ago. During this time, the Earth was home to a diverse array of creatures, including dinosaurs, marine reptiles, and early mammals. Archelon was one of the largest and most impressive creatures of this era, and its fossils provide valuable insights into the evolution of sea turtles.

Synonyms

There are no synonyms for Archelon, as it is a unique term that refers specifically to this genus of prehistoric sea turtles.

Antonyms

There are no antonyms for Archelon, as it is a specific term that does not have an opposite.

The same root words

Archelon is derived from the Greek words “arche” meaning “ancient” and “helon” meaning “turtle.” These words are also found in other scientific and paleontological terms, such as Archosauria (a group of reptiles that includes dinosaurs and crocodiles) and Helochelydra (an extinct genus of turtle).

Example Sentences

  • The fossils of Archelon provide valuable insights into the evolution of sea turtles during the Late Cretaceous period.
  • Archelon was one of the largest and most impressive creatures of its time, with a shell that measured up to 15 feet in length.
  • Paleontologists have discovered Archelon fossils in various parts of North America, including Kansas, South Dakota, and Wyoming.
Like this post? Please share to your friends:
Words Wiki
Leave a Reply

;-) :| :x :twisted: :smile: :shock: :sad: :roll: :razz: :oops: :o :mrgreen: :lol: :idea: :grin: :evil: :cry: :cool: :arrow: :???: :?: :!: