slow-worm

A slow-worm basks on a warm, flat stone in a garden.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A legless lizard: The "slow-worm" is a small, limbless reptile (species Anguis fragilis) that resembles a snake but is actually a lizard. It is found in Europe and parts of Asia, known for its smooth, shiny skin and ability to shed its tail when threatened.

Usage Examples

• (A legless lizard lying in the sun.)
• (Confusion due to physical similarity to snakes.)

Advanced Usage

• "to be as slow as a slow-worm": a simile meaning to move very slowly.
  • The traffic was as slow as a slow-worm during rush hour. (Extremely slow movement, comparing to the creature's sluggish pace.)

Variants and Related Words

• Slow-worm (n): The standard spelling; also occasionally spelled "sloe-worm" (archaic).
• Blindworm (n): An alternative name for the slow-worm, referring to its small, nearly blind eyes.
  • The blindworm is harmless to humans. (Another term for the same reptile.)

Synonyms

• Blindworm: a direct synonym.
• Hazelworm: a regional or historical name.

Related Idioms

• "slow as a slow-worm": used to describe someone or something that moves very slowly.
  • He walks as slow as a slow-worm when he's tired. (Extremely slow pace.)

Notes on Usage

• The term "slow-worm" is a compound noun; the hyphen is standard in formal writing.
• Despite its name, the slow-worm is neither a worm nor particularly slow; it moves quickly when hunting or escaping.