alligator

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a large semiaquatic reptile related to crocodiles, with a broad rounded snout

   An alligator rested on the muddy bank beside the river.

2. 2
   noun

   leather made from the hide of an alligator

   The vintage bag was made of polished alligator.

3. 3
   verb

   to crack into a pattern resembling alligator skin, especially of paint or a coated surface

   The old varnish began to alligator in the summer heat.

Common collocations

• alligator clip Noun + noun

An alteration of Spanish el lagarto 'the lizard,' from Latin lacertus 'lizard.' English speakers redivided the Spanish article and noun as a single word; the modern spelling was later influenced by familiar English and Latin-looking patterns.

Topics

External links

• Cambridge Dictionary
• Wiktionary
• Google Images