Are you confused about the plural of the word platypus? For many years, the plural of platypus has been a topic of debate. Is it platypuses or platypi? In this article, we’ll provide a definitive answer and help you understand everything you need to know about the plural form of this interesting mammal’s name.
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What is the plural of platypus?
The plural of platypus is platypuses. While the word platypi is sometimes used, it is less common. To make platypus plural, simply add an es to the end of the word. For example, one platypus becomes two platypuses. The correct pronunciation of platypuses is pla-tuh-puh-siz.
What is a platypus?
A platypus is a unique mammal native to eastern Australia. It has a duck-like bill, webbed feet, and a flat tail. Platypuses are semiaquatic, living in streams and rivers, and they feed on small insects, crustaceans, and other small aquatic animals.
One of the most unusual things about platypuses is that they lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young. They are also one of the few mammals that can produce venom. Male platypuses have venomous spurs on their hind legs that they use to defend themselves against predators and to establish dominance over other males during mating season.
Examples of singular and plural animals
Examples of animals with irregular plural forms:
- Dragonfly (singular) → dragonflies (plural)
- Mouse (singular) → mice (plural)
- Goose (singular) → geese (plural)
- Wolf (singular) → wolves (plural)
Platypuses in a sentence
- I saw three platypuses swimming in the river this morning.
- The platypuses at the zoo are always a crowd favorite.
- Platypuses are one of the few mammals that lay eggs instead of giving birth to live young.
- The platypuses’ venom is used to protect them from predators.
Now that you know everything about the plural of platypus and how to spell it, you can confidently use it in your writing and speech. Remember, it’s platypuses, not platypi.
