crocodile

/'krɔkədail/

Thân thiện

A crocodile basks on a riverbank in the sun.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A large, predatory, semiaquatic reptile: A crocodile is a large, carnivorous reptile with a long snout, powerful jaws, sharp teeth, and a body armored with bony plates (osteoderms). It inhabits tropical rivers, lakes, and wetlands and is known for its strength and stealth.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The Nile crocodile is one of the most dangerous species to humans.
  • We saw a massive crocodile basking on the riverbank.
  • The crocodile's powerful jaws snapped shut on its prey.

Advanced Usage

• "Crocodile tears": An idiom meaning false or insincere tears, or a display of hypocritical sorrow. This derives from the ancient belief that crocodiles weep while eating their victims.
  • He shed crocodile tears when he was fired, but everyone knew he hated the job.

Variants and Related Words

• Crocodilian (noun/adjective): Pertaining to the order Crocodilia, which includes crocodiles, alligators, caimans, and gharials.
  • Alligators and caimans are also crocodilian reptiles.

Synonyms

• Predator: An animal that naturally preys on others.
• Reptile: A cold-blooded vertebrate of a class that includes snakes, lizards, crocodiles, turtles, and tortoises.

Related Idioms

• "Crocodile tears": As defined above, a show of insincere grief.
  • Her apology was filled with crocodile tears; she wasn't sorry at all.

Học thuật

Noun

1. large voracious aquatic reptile having a long snout with massive jaws and sharp teeth and a body covered with bony plates; of sluggish tropical waters