Basiliscus
noun
Bas·i·lis·cus
\ˌbasəˈliskəs, -azə-\
Definition of Basiliscus
: a genus of active carnivorous lizards (family Iguanidae) that have rising above the occiput a membranous pouch which can be inflated with air and along the back a movable crest which can be raised or lowered at will — see basilisk 3
Explore Merriam-Webster
There's more!
Love words? You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.
Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:
- More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
- Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
- Advanced search features
- Ad free!
Origin and Etymology of basiliscus
New Latin, from Latin, basilisk
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up Basiliscus? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!