reptilian

1 of 2

adjective

rep·​til·​ian rep-ˈti-lē-ən 

-ˈtil-yən

1

: resembling or having the characteristics of the reptiles

2

: of or relating to the reptiles

3

: cold-bloodedly treacherous

a reptilian villain

—Theodore Dreiser

reptilian

2 of 2

noun

: reptile sense 2

Examples of reptilian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

For researchers, including Georgetown University chemist Jennifer Swift, analyzing reptilian pee crystals presented an opportunity to potentially improve or possibly save human lives. —Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 22 Oct. 2025

In Warhead, Wright explains how armed conflict impacts every part of our brain, from the instinctive reflexes of our reptilian brainstem to the cognitive and metacognitive functions of the prefrontal cortex. —Big Think, 18 Oct. 2025

Noun

The CrystaLynx Dragons pull apart to mix and match and create new types of reptilians. —Katrina Cossey, Parents, 16 Sep. 2025

From her New Look-esque Willy Chavarria pencil skirt and blazer to her reptilian Ashi Studios premiere dress, Ortega’s style has epitomized gothic glam. —Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 5 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1833, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1838, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for reptilian

• castilian
• civilian
• cotillion
• pavilion
• postilion
• quadrillion
• vermilion
• vermillion
• billion
• million
• pillion
• trillion

Kids Definition

reptilian

adjective

rep·​til·​ian

rep-ˈtil-ē-ən

: of, relating to, or resembling reptiles