Alligator – Definition & Meaning

Alligator is a word that is commonly used in the English language. It is a term that is often associated with the reptilian creature that is found in the southern United States. However, the word alligator has a broader definition that extends beyond the animal kingdom. In this article, we will explore the meaning and definition of alligator and its various associations.

Definitions

The word alligator is a noun that refers to a large reptile that is native to the southeastern United States. It is also used to describe a tool that is used for gripping or cutting, and it can refer to a person who is aggressive or ruthless.

Origin

The word alligator comes from the Spanish word “el lagarto,” which means “the lizard.” The term was first used in English in the 16th century to describe the reptile that is now known as the American alligator.

Meaning in different dictionaries

The meaning of alligator varies slightly in different dictionaries. According to Merriam-Webster, an alligator is “a large carnivorous reptile with a long snout, thick skin, and sharp teeth, native to the southeastern United States.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines alligator as “a large semiaquatic reptile similar to a crocodile but with a broader and shorter head, native to the Americas.”

Associations

Alligator is often associated with the southern United States, particularly the state of Florida, where the animal is commonly found. It is also associated with danger and aggression due to the animal’s reputation for being a fierce predator.

Synonyms

Some synonyms for alligator include crocodile, gator, and caiman. These words are all used to describe similar reptiles that are found in different parts of the world.

Antonyms

There are no true antonyms for alligator, as it is a specific term that describes a particular type of animal. However, some words that are often used in opposition to alligator include herbivore, pacifist, and gentle.

The same root words

The word alligator does not have any root words, as it is a standalone term. However, it is derived from the Spanish word “el lagarto,” which means “the lizard.”

Example Sentences

  1. I saw an alligator in the pond behind my house.
  2. The alligator clip is a useful tool for holding things in place.
  3. He’s an alligator in the courtroom, ruthless and aggressive.
  4. The crocodile and the alligator are both large predators that live in water.
  5. She was a pacifist, the opposite of an alligator.
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