glyptodon

noun

glyp·​to·​don

ˈgliptəˌdän

1

capitalized : a genus of large extinct mammals (order Edentata) that are related to the armadillos, have a head shield, have the back covered by a large rigid carapace composed of small 5-sided or 6-sided bony plates covered with horny plates and the tail encircled by rings of bony plates, and are represented by numerous remains in the Pleistocene of South America and of southern North America

2

plural -s : glyptodont

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from glypt- + -odon

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now