Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of lizard: A collared lizard is any of several species of robust, long-tailed lizards characterized by a distinctive collar-like marking of two dark bands around the neck. They are native to the central and western United States and northern Mexico.

Usage

• The word "collared lizard" is a countable noun. It refers specifically to lizards of the genus .
• It is typically used in biological, zoological, or general descriptive contexts when discussing North American reptiles.

Examples

• Noun:
  • We spotted a brightly colored collared lizard basking on the sun-warmed rock.
  • The eastern collared lizard is known for its ability to run swiftly on its hind legs.

Advanced Usage

• "collared lizard" in scientific context: The term is used in herpetology to classify and discuss specific species within the genus.
  • The study focused on the habitat preferences of the Great Basin collared lizard.

Variants and Related Words

• Crotaphytus (n): The scientific genus name for collared lizards.
• Leopard lizard (n): A related genus () of lizards sometimes confused with or mentioned alongside collared lizards.

Synonyms

• Crotaphytus lizard: A more scientific synonym.
• (Note: There are no perfect common-language synonyms, as "collared lizard" is the standard common name for this specific group.)

Related Phrases

• To run like a collared lizard: An informal, comparative phrase alluding to the lizard's notable bipedal running speed.
  • When the bell rang, the kids ran out of the school like collared lizards.

Related Idioms

• (There are no widely recognized idioms specifically featuring "collared lizard.")

Noun

1. any of several robust long-tailed lizards with collars of two dark bands; of central and western United States and northern Mexico