1. a small Australian mammal with a duck-like bill, webbed feet, and a flat tail that lays eggs

Examples

• The platypus is one of only two mammals that lay eggs.
• Scientists were initially skeptical when they first encountered a platypus specimen.
• The platypus uses its sensitive bill to hunt for food underwater.
• Australia’s platypus is found in freshwater streams and rivers.
• The male platypus has venomous spurs on its hind legs.
• Children at the zoo were fascinated by the swimming platypus.