aves Meaning, Definition & Usage
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noun (ornithology) the class of birds
class Aves.
WordNet
A"ves noun plural
Etymology
L., pl. ofDefinitions
(Zoöl.) The class of Vertebrata that includes the birds. ✍ Aves, or birds, have a complete double circulation, oviparous, reproduction, front limbs peculiarly modified as wings; and they bear feathers. All existing birds have a horny beak, without teeth; but some Mesozoic fossil birds (Odontornithes) had conical teeth inserted in both jaws. The principal groups are: Carinatæ , including all existing flying birds;Ratitæ , including the ostrich and allies, the apteryx, and the extinct moas;Odontornithes , or fossil birds with teeth.The ordinary birds are classified largely by the structure of the beak and feet, which are in direct relating to their habits. See Beak ,Bird ,Odontonithes .