Definition

1. Noun (Taxonomic Rank):
   • A taxonomic suborder within the order Squamata: "Suborder Sauria" is a scientific classification for a major group of reptiles, traditionally encompassing true lizards, including families such as chameleons and geckos. In modern cladistics, this group is often synonymous with the clade Lacertilia.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The iguana belongs to the suborder Sauria.
  • Herpetologists study the evolution of the suborder Sauria.

Advanced Usage

• In scientific literature: The term "Sauria" is used in phylogenetic contexts to discuss the relationships between different lizard lineages.
  • The paper proposed a new phylogeny for the suborder Sauria.

Variants and Related Words

• Saurian (adj/n): Of or relating to lizards; a lizard-like reptile.
  • The fossil had distinct saurian characteristics.
• Lacertilia (n): The clade or infraorder often considered equivalent to the suborder Sauria, comprising all lizards.
  • Lacertilia is a diverse group within squamate reptiles.

Synonyms

• Lizards (common term): The general, non-scientific term for the animals within this group.
• Lacertilians (scientific term): Members of the infraorder Lacertilia.

Notes on Meaning

• Historical vs. Modern Usage: In classic Linnaean taxonomy, "Suborder Sauria" specifically referred to lizards. In broader modern phylogenetic definitions, "Sauria" can sometimes refer to a more inclusive clade containing both lizards and their close relatives, including archosaurs (like crocodilians and birds). However, in the specific context provided, it refers to the lizard suborder.
• Distinction from Serpentes: Within Squamata, the suborder Sauria (lizards) is distinct from the suborder Serpentes (snakes).

Noun

1. true lizards; including chameleons and geckos