Definition

1. Noun:
   • A taxonomic family of lizards: "Family Agamidae" is the scientific name for a family of lizards commonly known as agamids or dragon lizards. These are primarily Old World reptiles, found in Africa, Asia, and Australia.

Usage

• The term "Family Agamidae" is used in formal, scientific contexts such as zoology, herpetology, and biological classification. It refers to the entire taxonomic group.
• Example:

Examples

• Noun:
  • Researchers are studying the evolutionary history of the Family Agamidae.
  • Many species within the Family Agamidae, like the frilled lizard, have distinctive physical displays.

Advanced Usage

• In phylogenetic studies, the clade Agamidae is often discussed in relation to its sister family, Chamaeleonidae (chameleons).
  • The study focused on the morphological differences between Family Agamidae and Family Chamaeleonidae.

Variants and Related Words

• Agamid (n): A common name for any member of the Family Agamidae.
  • The agamid darted across the hot rocks.
• Agamidae: Often used without "Family" in technical writing.
  • The phylogeny of Agamidae is complex.

Synonyms

• Agamids: The informal, plural common name for members of this family.
• Dragon lizards: A descriptive common name for many species in this family, due to their often spiny or dramatic appearance.

Related Terms

• Sauria: A suborder of reptiles that includes all lizards; "Family Agamidae" is classified within this group.
• Old World: Refers to the continents of Africa, Asia, Europe, and Australia, which is the primary distribution range for this family.

Noun

1. an Old World reptile family of Sauria