1. An extinct mammal-like reptile of the Triassic period, characterized by dog-like teeth and considered an ancestor of mammals.
Usage: paleontology; scientific

Examples

• Cynodonts were among the most successful synapsids of the Triassic period.
• The cynodont fossil showed features intermediate between reptiles and early mammals.
• Scientists study cynodonts to understand the evolution of mammals from reptilian ancestors.
• Cynodonts possessed specialized teeth adapted for eating meat and plants.
• The discovery of new cynodont specimens has provided insights into mammalian evolution.