1. A large flying reptile of the Cretaceous period with a long crest on its head and membranous wings.
Usage: paleontology; often capitalized when referring to the genus

Examples

• The pteranodon soared through the skies of the Cretaceous period.
• Fossils of pteranodons have been found in North America and Europe.
• Unlike dinosaurs, pteranodons were flying reptiles with wings made of skin and membrane.
• The pteranodon's distinctive head crest may have been used for display or balance.
• Scientists believe pteranodons were carnivorous and hunted fish from the ocean.
• A pteranodon's wingspan could reach up to 33 feet in length.