flying lizard: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2scientific, technical, natural history
Quick answer
What does “flying lizard” mean?
A lizard from the genus Draco, which has wing-like membranes allowing it to glide between trees.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A lizard from the genus Draco, which has wing-like membranes allowing it to glide between trees.
Used informally to refer to any lizard with gliding capabilities, such as some geckos. Sometimes used metaphorically for something that appears to move through the air with lizard-like agility.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Spelling remains the same.
Connotations
Identical connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both dialects, confined to zoological, documentary, and natural history contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “flying lizard” in a Sentence
The [adjective] flying lizard [verb].Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Almost never used.
Academic
Used in zoology, biology, and natural history papers.
Everyday
Rarely used outside of documentaries, nature discussions, or visits to zoos/aquariums.
Technical
Precise term for lizards of the genus Draco.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “flying lizard”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “flying lizard”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “flying lizard”
- Using 'flying' to imply powered flight. Incorrect: 'The flying lizard flew to the next branch.' Correct: 'The flying lizard glided to the next branch.'
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they cannot fly like birds. They are gliders, using wing-like membranes (patagia) to glide from tree to tree.
They are primarily found in the rainforests of Southeast Asia and southern India.
It is a common name. The scientific term refers to the genus Draco.
They are primarily insectivores, feeding on ants and termites.
A lizard from the genus Draco, which has wing-like membranes allowing it to glide between trees.
Flying lizard is usually scientific, technical, natural history in register.
Flying lizard: in British English it is pronounced /ˌflaɪ.ɪŋ ˈlɪz.əd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌflaɪ.ɪŋ ˈlɪz.ɚd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
"FLYING LIZARD" = Imagine a LIZARD with F(l)ying capes (the patagial membranes) gliding between trees.
Conceptual Metaphor
N/A. The term is almost purely denotative.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary mode of locomotion referred to by 'flying' in 'flying lizard'?