Synonyms for

Reptile

Verb / ˈreptaɪl / Another word for reptile — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a cold-blooded vertebrate with scaly skin and a backbone, such as a snake or lizard

Synonyms & similar words

reptilian snake lizard turtle crocodile alligator dinosaur chameleon gecko iguanodon monitor salamander serpent tortoise tuatara dragon viper cobra python anaconda

Synonyms by register

Formal

chelonian ophidian saurian lacertilian

Informal

lizard snake turtle croc

Literary

scaled creature cold-blooded beast serpent

Antonyms

mammal bird amphibian fish insect warm-blooded animal

Common collocations

  • cold-blooded reptile
  • slimy reptile
  • venomous reptile
  • terrarium reptile
  • pet reptile
  • ancient reptile
  • reptile enclosure
  • reptile handler

Word family

noun reptile
adjective reptilian

Usage note

While 'reptile' technically refers to a specific class of animals, it is often used informally to describe any cold-blooded, scaly creature, sometimes with a negative connotation of being sneaky or untrustworthy.

Example sentences

  1. The reptile slithered through the grass.
  2. We saw a huge reptile at the nature park.
  3. The museum has a collection of dinosaur and reptile fossils.
  4. I don't like to touch reptiles because they feel slimy.
  5. My favorite reptile is the chameleon because it can change colors.

Quotes

  • The reptiles are the lowliest and most bestial of all classes of beings. - H. P. Lovecraft
  • I'm just a little reptile. - Iggy Pop
  • A reptile has cold blood. It doesn't have to think or feel. It doesn't have to worry about protecting its young. It's a survivor. - Wyclef Jean

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