The scientific order that includes loons and grebes, diving waterbirds with legs positioned far back on their bodies.
From gavia (the loon genus) plus Latin -formes meaning 'in the form of.' This taxonomic term was created in the 19th century as scientific classification expanded.
Gaviiformes birds have legs so far back they can barely walk on land—they're basically the opposite of evolution giving animals options, instead they went all-in on swimming.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.