platypine

platypine ('PLAT-i-pahyn) (adj.): Of, pertaining to, or resembling a duck-billed platypus in any manner.


The duck-billed platypus (Ornithorhynchus Anatinus) is a semi-aquatic marsupial native to the continent of Australia. It is distinguished by a bill similar to that of a duck, a tail like a beaver's and feet that bear a resemblance to those of an otter. The word platypine may be used to describe any or all of the above characteristics. It may also denote a bizarre mixture of qualities or elements from highly different sources.

Usage:

"He swims like a fish. And that butterfly stroke is positively platypine!"

"Of all the platypine chicks you could have fallen for, did you have to pick one that also lays eggs?"

"Wonder-woman's costume makes for a platypine combination of minimalism, fabric-efficiency, and garishness."


Etymology:

The first use of the word platypine can be traced back to a scented letter written by the young poet, Jonathan Wordstower, to his childhood sweetheart, Emily, in 1580. The verses in question have been reproduced below:

To conquer truly mine love for thee,
Hard-pressed would be mighty Constantine!
For thy silky strands, they flail so free,
Thine plastic pouters art platypine.

As destiny would have it, Wordstower never attained the literary fame that his contemporary, William Shakespeare did, and died of poverty in 1592.