monitor lizard
Definition
Noun: 1. A large tropical carnivorous lizard: A monitor lizard is any of several species of large, predatory lizards belonging to the genus Varanus. They are characterized by long necks, powerful tails, strong legs, and forked tongues. They are found in Africa, Asia, and Australia.
Usage and Examples
- Noun:
- The Komodo dragon is the largest species of monitor lizard.
- We saw a monitor lizard basking on a rock near the riverbank.
- Some cultures have folklore suggesting that monitor lizards warn of the presence of crocodiles.
Advanced Usage and Notes
- The name "monitor" is said to originate from the superstition that these lizards would warn or "monitor" people of nearby crocodiles.
- Monitor lizards are also commonly referred to simply as "monitors."
- They are skilled climbers and swimmers, and their diet can include insects, eggs, small mammals, birds, and carrion.
Variants and Related Words
- Monitor (noun): A common shortened form for "monitor lizard."
- Goanna (noun): A common name for monitor lizards in Australia.
- Varanid (noun): The scientific family name for monitor lizards (Varanidae).
Synonyms
- Goanna (specifically in Australian English)
- Varanid
Related Phrases and Terms
- Komodo dragon: The largest living species of monitor lizard, found in Indonesia.
- Nile monitor: A large, widespread monitor lizard species found in Africa.
Noun
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any of various large tropical carnivorous lizards of Africa and Asia and Australia; fabled to warn of crocodiles
