Reptilian Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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reptilian
[rɛpˈtɪlɪən ]
Definitions
animal
Relating to or characteristic of reptiles. Resembling a reptile.
Synonyms
lizard-like, reptile-like, serpentine.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| reptilian |
Use in a general sense to describe characteristics typical of reptiles. It can also have a negative connotation when describing someone as cold, calculating, or unfeeling, similar to how some people perceive reptiles.
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| reptile-like |
Used similarly to 'reptilian,' it describes something that has characteristics of reptiles. This term can be used in both neutral and negative contexts, but it is less common than 'reptilian'.
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| lizard-like |
Best used when specifically comparing someone or something to a lizard, especially when referring to physical traits such as scales or movement.
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| serpentine |
Best used to describe something that resembles or moves like a snake, often referring to shape or movement. It can also suggest something sneaky or devious.
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Examples of usage
- The museum had a display of various reptilian species.
- The creature had a reptilian appearance with scales and a long tail.
informal, negative connotation
Cold-blooded, treacherous, or deceitful.
Synonyms
cold-blooded, deceitful, treacherous.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| reptilian |
Used to describe something that has the characteristics or appearance of reptiles, often implying something cold or emotionless.
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| cold-blooded |
Used to describe someone or something that is cruel, without emotion, or unfeeling. Often has a negative connotation.
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| treacherous |
Used to describe someone who betrays trust or is dangerous and unstable. This term has a negative connotation.
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| deceitful |
Used to describe someone who is intentionally misleading or lying. This word has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- He gave her a reptilian smile, full of hidden motives.
- The politician's actions were described as reptilian by his critics.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Biology
- Reptiles are characterized by their scaly skin, which helps them retain moisture.
- They are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external sources to regulate their body temperature.
- Famous examples of reptiles include turtles, crocodiles, and iguanas.
Pop Culture
- In movies and TV, 'reptilian' often refers to fictional aliens or creatures that resemble reptiles, suggesting they are cunning or dangerous.
- The concept of reptilian humanoids has been popularized by conspiracy theories, suggesting that these beings secretly control the world.
Psychology
- The idea of a 'reptilian brain' refers to the most primitive part of our brain, which controls survival instincts like aggression and dominance.
- Some theories suggest humans have innate fears or aggression toward reptiles due to evolutionary traits.
Literature
- Reptilian characters often symbolize evil or trickery in various mythologies and folklore around the world.
- The dragon, a well-known reptilian creature, appears in many cultures, symbolizing power and wisdom but also chaos.
Origin of 'reptilian'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'reptilian' comes from the Latin 'reptilis', meaning 'creeping or crawling'.
- In the 16th century, it started to be used in the English language to describe animals like snakes and lizards.
The word 'reptilian' originates from the Latin word 'reptilis', which means 'creeping' or 'crawling'. It is used to describe things related to reptiles or with characteristics similar to reptiles. The concept of reptiles has been present in human culture for centuries, often symbolizing qualities like cold-bloodedness or cunning. In modern contexts, 'reptilian' is commonly used to describe either animals belonging to the reptile group or to metaphorically refer to someone as cold-hearted or deceitful.