'Theriodontia' definitions:

Definition of 'Theriodontia'

From: GCIDE
  • Theriodontia \The`ri*o*don"ti*a\, n. pl. [NL., fr. Gr. ? (dim. of ? a beast) + ?, ?, a tooth.] (Paleon.) An extinct order of reptiles found in the Permian and Triassic formations in South Africa. In some respects they resembled carnivorous mammals. Called also Theromorpha. [1913 Webster]
  • Note: They had biconcave vertebrae, ambulatory limbs, and a well-developed pelvis and shoulder girdle. Some of the species had large maxillary teeth. The head somewhat resembled that of a turtle. The Dicynodont is one of the best-known examples. See Dicynodont. [1913 Webster]