online vocabulary.com

Reptile - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

reptile

/ˈrɛpˌtaɪl/ /ˈrɛptaɪl/

Definition:

A cold-blooded vertebrate animal with scaly skin, such as a snake, lizard, or turtle.

Synonyms:

serpent, lizard, amphibian, saurian

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

mammal, bird

Common Collocations:

reptile habitat, reptile species, reptile scales, reptile keeper

Derivatives:

reptilian, reptiloid

Usage Tips:

Use "reptile" to describe scaly, cold-blooded animals like snakes or turtles; avoid for mammals or birds.

Common Phrases:

cold-blooded reptile, reptile brain, slither like a reptile

Etymology:

From Latin "reptilis," meaning creeping or crawling; derived from "repere," to creep.

Examples:

  • 1. The zoo has a new exhibit featuring colorful reptiles.
  • 2. Lizards and snakes are common reptiles found in deserts.
  • 3. She studies reptiles and their habitats for her research project.
  • 4. The children were fascinated by the slow-moving turtle, a type of reptile.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS