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Skink Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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skink

[skɪŋk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

animal species

A skink is a type of lizard belonging to the family Scincidae, which is known for its smooth, shiny scales and elongated body shape. Skinks can be found in a variety of habitats, ranging from forests to deserts, and they are often characterized by their elongated limbs or, in some species, a complete lack of limbs.

Synonyms

lizard, reptile.

Examples of usage

  • The skink hid beneath a rock to escape the heat.
  • In the garden, we spotted a vibrant blue skink.
  • Some skinks are capable of losing their tails as a defense mechanism.
Context #2 | Noun

slang term

In certain informal contexts, 'skink' can refer to a person who is considered annoying or bothersome. This usage is primarily slang and not widely recognized in formal vocabulary.

Synonyms

nuisance, pest.

Examples of usage

  • Don't be such a skink at the party.
  • He was acting like a total skink with his constant interruptions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'skink'

The term 'skink' originates from the Old English word 'scinc', which referred to a type of lizard. Since then, it has evolved linguistically over centuries, especially within the scope of zoology. The family Scincidae, to which skinks belong, comprises over 1,500 species, demonstrating considerable diversity across the globe. This diversity has driven research and classification efforts, with skinks being a prominent subject for both scientific study and casual observation due to their unique adaptations, such as limb reduction and tail autotomy. While the primary definition remains related to reptiles, the informal use of 'skink' to denote a bothersome person showcases how language can shift and adapt to cultural contexts. Understanding this evolution provides insight into both historical linguistics and contemporary usage.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,005, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.