chameleon: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Formal, literary, and informal (in figurative use).
Quick answer
What does “chameleon” mean?
A small, slow-moving lizard known for its ability to change its skin colour to blend into its surroundings or communicate.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small, slow-moving lizard known for its ability to change its skin colour to blend into its surroundings or communicate.
A person who frequently and easily changes their behaviour, opinions, or appearance to suit different situations.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling and pronunciation are consistent.
Connotations
Both share the same dual meaning (literal/figurative) and the same potential negative connotation for the figurative use.
Frequency
Comparable frequency in both dialects. The figurative use is slightly more common in political commentary.
Grammar
How to Use “chameleon” in a Sentence
[be] a chameleon[act/behave like] a chameleona chameleon of [politics/fashion]chameleon-like [ability/nature]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “chameleon” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- (Rare/Non-standard) He seemed to chameleon his way through different social circles.
American English
- (Rare/Non-standard) The actor can chameleon into any role.
adjective
British English
- Her chameleon personality made her difficult to trust.
American English
- He has a chameleon-like ability to fit in.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used to describe a colleague or manager who alters their management style excessively to match their audience.
Academic
Used in biology/zoology for the reptile, and in social sciences/political science for identity-shifting individuals or groups.
Everyday
Commonly used figuratively to describe someone who is not being genuine or who fits in anywhere.
Technical
Refers specifically to lizards of the family Chamaeleonidae, noting specialised traits like zygodactylous feet and projectile tongues.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “chameleon”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “chameleon”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chameleon”
- Misspelling: 'chamelion', 'cameleon'. Incorrect use as a verb: 'He chameleoned into the crowd.' (Use 'blended in' or 'adapted' instead).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not in standard English. While occasionally used informally (e.g., 'to chameleon one's way'), it is non-standard. Use verbs like 'adapt', 'blend in', or 'change' instead.
It is context-dependent but often carries a negative connotation of insincerity, opportunism, or a lack of core principles. It can be neutral or positive when emphasising adaptability in non-personal contexts (e.g., an actor's chameleon-like range).
A hypocrite professes beliefs or standards they do not actually hold. A chameleon changes their expressed beliefs, appearance, or behaviour to fit in, which may or may not involve hypocrisy if their core self remains unchanged.
Most species can change colour, but the ability varies. Colour change is used for communication (e.g., aggression, courtship) and thermoregulation, not just camouflage.
A small, slow-moving lizard known for its ability to change its skin colour to blend into its surroundings or communicate.
Chameleon is usually formal, literary, and informal (in figurative use). in register.
Chameleon: in British English it is pronounced /kəˈmiːliən/, and in American English it is pronounced /kəˈmiːliən/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A chameleon on plaid (US: someone trying unsuccessfully to please everyone).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Came, Leon, and changed his coat!' – a story about someone named Leon who arrived and changed his appearance like the lizard.
Conceptual Metaphor
A CHANGEABLE PERSON IS A COLOUR-CHANGING LIZARD; ADAPTABILITY IS CAMOUFLAGE.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the LEAST likely meaning of 'chameleon' in modern English?