Texas toad
- noun
- /ˈtɛksəs toʊd/
- US
- The Texas toad is well adapted to life in arid environments, often burrowing underground to avoid the heat.
Examples
-
We spotted a Texas toad near the mesquite trees just after sunset.
-
During the rainy season, Texas toads emerge in large numbers to breed in shallow puddles.
-
The Texas toad is known for its unique call.
-
Many Texas toads are found near water sources.
-
During the rainy season, Texas toads emerge in large numbers to breed in shallow puddles.
-
The Texas toad is well adapted to life in arid environments, often burrowing underground to avoid the heat.
-
We spotted a Texas toad near the mesquite trees just after sunset.
Synonyms
A toad that burrows and is active at night in southwestern US prairies
Surface Forms
Morphology
This is a straightforward compositional compound: 'Texas' (a place) + 'toad' (an amphibian) yields a toad associated with Texas. The meaning (a toad from or found in Texas) is directly derivable from the constituents and follows a common place‑name + animal pattern that a B1 learner would understand.
Etymology
Texas toad is a name that links the place Texas with the animal toad. These burrowing toads hide underground in hot, dry places and come out at night and after rain, so the name means 'a toad from Texas'.