gators
n. plural-only B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɡeɪtɝz// UK //ɡˈeɪtəz// gators
n. a short, informal name for alligators. You use this word when talking about these large reptiles with sharp teeth that live in water.
n. a colloquial shortening of 'alligators', referring to large crocodilian reptiles. Typically used in informal contexts or regional dialects where the animals are common.
We saw several gators swimming in the swamp.
The tour guide warned us to keep our hands inside the boat because of the gators in the water.
While the scientific community uses the full taxonomic names, locals often refer to the reptiles simply as gators, reflecting a long-standing cultural familiarity with the species in the region.
Usage
Informal shortening; usually appears in the plural form when referring to the species generally.