# amphibian

/æmˈfɪbiən/ (US) · /æmfˈɪbiən/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/amphibian
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

an animal that lives both in water and on land. Frogs, toads, and newts are all examples of this.

For teachers: a cold-blooded vertebrate that typically lives in water as a larva and on land as an adult. Includes frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts.

## Examples

- The frog is a common example of an amphibian.
- Many amphibians are sensitive to changes in their environment, making them important indicators of ecosystem health.
- Unlike reptiles, which have dry, scaly skin, amphibians possess moist, permeable skin that allows for gas exchange and makes them highly susceptible to environmental toxins.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.