Goniopholis

/ˌɡoʊniˈɒfəlɪs/ noun

Definition

A genus of extinct crocodilian reptile from the Mesozoic era, characterized by bony armor and angular features.

Etymology

From Greek gonia (angle) + pholid- (scale, armor). The genus name emphasizes the angular, plated appearance of these prehistoric crocodiles.

Kelly Says

Goniopholis fossils show that crocodilians were incredibly successful predators in the Jurassic and Cretaceous—they barely changed because evolution's answer was 'don't fix what isn't broken.'

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.