mammal-like reptile

plural mammal-like reptiles

1. datedbiologyAny basal member of the Synapsida, related to the mammals but superficially resembling reptiles.

   Synapsida: amniotes with one lower temporal fenestra, surrounded by the postorbital, jugal and squamosal. Includes the extinct mammal-like reptiles and the mammals.

   1997 — Michael J. Benton, Vertebrate Paleontology, 2nd ed.; ch 5, p 109

   1 more example

   The mammal-like reptiles, constituting the subclass Synapsida, were among the earliest to appear of known reptilian groups and had passed the peak of their career before the first dinosaur appeared on the earth.

   1966 — Alfred S. Romer, Vertebrate Paleontology, 3rd ed.; ch 14, p 173