1. Plural of dimetrodon; extinct synapsid reptiles from the Permian period, characterized by a large sail-like structure on the back and differentiated teeth.
Usage: paleontology; scientific

Examples

• Dimetrodons were among the dominant predators of the early Permian period.
• The distinctive sail on dimetrodons may have been used for thermoregulation or display.
• Fossil evidence shows that dimetrodons had more advanced teeth than earlier synapsids.
• Scientists study dimetrodons to understand the evolution of mammal-like reptiles.
• The largest dimetrodons could reach lengths of up to 3 meters.