1. A large, primitive reptile native to New Zealand, resembling a lizard but belonging to a distinct order; also called a tuatara.
Usage: zoology; often capitalized when referring to the genus Hatteria

Examples

• The hatteria is one of the most ancient reptiles still living today.
• Scientists study the hatteria to understand reptile evolution.
• The hatteria has a third eye on top of its head, visible in juveniles.
• New Zealand protects the hatteria as an endangered species.
• Unlike most lizards, the hatteria has a slow metabolism and long lifespan.