lizard (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

• Noun

Phonetic Transcription

• /ˈlɪz.əd/

Meaning and Usage

The word "lizard" refers to a diverse group of reptiles belonging to the suborder Lacertilia, characterized by their elongated bodies, four legs, and scaly skin. Lizards are found in many different environments and play various roles in their ecosystems, often as both predators and prey.

In terms of frequency of use, "lizard" is relatively common in English, especially in contexts relating to biology, wildlife, and environmental discussions. It tends to appear more frequently in written contexts, such as scientific literature, though it is also used in oral speech.

Example Sentences

1. The lizard basked in the sun on a warm rock.
   Ящерица грелась на солнце на теплом камне.

2. In the garden, we spotted a small green lizard hiding among the plants.
   В саду мы заметили небольшую зеленую ящерицу, прячущуюся среди растений.

3. The children were excited to see a lizard darting across the path.
   Дети были в восторге, увидев ящерицу, быстро проскочившую по тропинке.

Idiomatic Expressions

The term "lizard" is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions, but here are a few instances where it appears in informal or metaphorical contexts:

1. "To have a lizard brain" refers to making instinctual decisions without higher reasoning; it's often used to describe impulsive behavior.
   "Иметь ящерицу в мозгу" означает принимать инстинктивные решения без высшего мышления; это часто используется для описания импульсивного поведения.

2. "As slippery as a lizard" indicates someone who is difficult to catch or trust, often because they are deceitful.
   "Скользкий, как ящерица" указывает на кого-то, кого трудно поймать или доверять, часто потому что он обманчив.

3. "Lizard tongue" is sometimes used to describe a person who is deceitful in speech or manipulative in conversation.
   "Ящерица язык" иногда используется, чтобы описать человека, который обманчив в речах или манипулятивен в разговоре.

Etymology

The word "lizard" originates from Middle English "lizard" and Old French "lissart," which in turn comes from Vulgar Latin lacertus, meaning "lizard." The roots can be traced back to Latin "lacerta," which is still used in scientific contexts to refer to various lizards.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms: reptile, skink, gecko (the latter two are specific types of lizards)
• Antonyms: (Note: There are no direct antonyms for "lizard" because it refers to a specific type of animal. However, one might consider creatures that are not reptiles, such as mammals or birds, to be antonymous in a broader ecological sense.)

This comprehensive overview provides insight into the word "lizard," its usage, related expressions, etymology, and variations.