Definition

Noun: 1. A type of large lizard characterized by numerous dark spots on its body, native to the western United States and northern Mexico. The name refers to lizards in the genus Gambelia.

Usage

The term "leopard lizard" is used as a common name for specific spotted lizard species. It functions as a countable noun. * The leopard lizard uses its speed to catch prey. * We observed a leopard lizard basking on a rock. * Several leopard lizards inhabit this arid region.

Examples

• The leopard lizard' spotted pattern provides excellent camouflage in its desert habitat.
• Biologists are studying the behavior of the leopard lizard.
• A key identifier for the leopard lizard is its long tail and distinct spotting.

Advanced Usage

• The name is often used in a zoological or ecological context to discuss species within the genus , such as the blunt-nosed leopard lizard ().

Variants and Related Words

• Blunt-nosed leopard lizard: A specific endangered species () found in California.
• Long-nosed leopard lizard: Another common species () with a wider range.

Synonyms

• Spotted lizard (a general descriptive term, not a scientific synonym)
• lizard (the scientific genus name)

Different Meanings

The term "leopard lizard" has a single, specific zoological meaning and is not commonly used idiomatically or with other definitions.

Noun

1. any of several large lizards with many dark spots; of western United States and northern Mexico