Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

mastodon

noun

/ˈmæstəˌdɒn/

Definition

A large, extinct mammal that resembled an elephant, known for its long tusks and distinctive teeth.

Examples

The fossilized remains of a mastodon were discovered in the nearby quarry.
Mastodons were herbivores that likely fed on shrubs and trees.
Scientists study mastodons to understand the climate and ecosystems of the past.

Meaning

Mastodon refers to a prehistoric creature that roamed the Earth millions of years ago, primarily during the late Miocene to the end of the Pleistocene epochs.