pterodactyli

Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)

Pterodactyli \Pter`o*dac"ty*li\, n. pl. [NL.] (Paleon.) Same as Pterosauria. [1913 Webster]

Pterosauria \Pter`o*sau"ri*a\, n. pl. [NL.] (Paleon.) An extinct order of flying reptiles of the Mesozoic age; the pterodactyls; -- called also Pterodactyli, and Ornithosauria. [1913 Webster]

Note: The wings were formed, like those of bats, by a leathery expansion of the skin, principally supported by the greatly enlarged outer or " little" fingers of the hands. The American Cretaceous pterodactyls had no teeth. See Pteranodontia, and Pterodactyl. [1913 Webster]