platypus
Meaning
A semi-aquatic, egg-laying Australian mammal with a duck-like bill, webbed feet and a broad tail.
Example
If you sit quietly by the creek at dusk you might see a platypus.
Origin
From Greek 'platypous', flat-footed.
Nearby words
- pituriA shrub of inland Australia whose nicotine-rich leaves were chewed as a stimulant by Aboriginal people and…
- placegetterA competitor, team or horse finishing in a place, usually second or third.
- plain turkeyThe Australian bustard, a large ground-dwelling bird of open country. Dated.
- plantIn the bush, a droving or travelling outfit: the horses, gear and stores of a team. Dated. A hidden stash of…
- playing handiesHolding hands, as courting couples do.
- please explainA demand for an explanation; also a formal request for one, as in 'he got a please explain from head office'.
- plonkCheap wine.
- plonkoA heavy drinker of cheap wine; an alcoholic down-and-out.