Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
genus Crotaphytus

genus Crotaphytus

9.9
A group of North American lizards with dark bands on their necks
  • noun
  • /ˈdʒɛnəs ˈkroʊtəˌfaɪtəs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : género Crotaphytus
  • The genus Crotaphytus includes several species of brightly colored collared lizards found in arid regions.

Examples

  • Biologists are studying how members of the genus Crotaphytus adapt to their rocky habitats.

  • Fossil evidence suggests that the genus Crotaphytus has existed for millions of years in North America.

  • The genus Crotaphytus includes several species of lizards.

  • Did you know that the genus Crotaphytus is known for its bright colors?

  • The genus Crotaphytus is famous for its agility and distinctive neck bands.

  • Many species within the genus Crotaphytus thrive in the deserts of North America.

  • Research on the genus Crotaphytus reveals interesting adaptations to extreme temperatures.

Synonyms

Crotaphytus
vsgenus Crotaphytus
  • Specialized
9.9

A kind of lizard with a dark collar that lives in dry places in North America

has identical meaning but also highlights common name, neck bands, and agility
collared lizard
vsgenus Crotaphytus
  • US
7.6

A large long-tailed lizard with two dark bands around its neck like a collar

names the same group but uses the formal scientific name rather than the common name

Surface Forms

genus Crotaphytus singular
genera Crotaphytus plural

Morphology

genus + Crotaphytus

The phrase is directly compositional: 'genus' (a biological rank) combined with the proper name 'Crotaphytus' denotes the taxonomic group called Crotaphytus. This rank+name pattern is a straightforward, cross-linguistically common construction, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents will readily understand the meaning.

Etymology

The name genus Crotaphytus may come from old Greek words for the 'side of the head', referring to the dark bands around these lizards' necks and heads. So, imagine a quick, rock-loving 'collared lizard' with a bold neck band, and that picture helps you remember this agile group from North America.