# reptile

/ˈɹɛptaɪɫ/ (US) · /ɹˈɛptaɪl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/reptile
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. scaly animal

noun · CEFR B1

a cold-blooded animal that has skin covered in scales and usually lays eggs.

For teachers: a cold-blooded vertebrate of the class Reptilia, typically characterized by a skin covered in scales or bony plates and the laying of leathery-shelled eggs.

- The children were excited to see the giant reptile at the zoo's snake house.
- Biologists noted that the reptile population in the wetlands had declined due to the loss of their natural nesting habitats.

### 2. a mean person

noun · CEFR C2 · Informal · Humorous

a person who is dishonest, mean, or impossible to trust.

For teachers: a person considered contemptible, grovelling, or loathsome.

- Don't believe a word he says; he is a total reptile.
- The political satirist described the corrupt official as a spineless reptile who would betray anyone for a promotion.

### 3. creeping

adjective · CEFR C2 · Archaic · Literary

moving close to the ground or on the belly.

For teachers: relating to or characteristic of animals that move on their bellies or on very short legs.

- The poet wrote about the reptile creatures that hide in the dark forest.
- The old manuscript contained detailed illustrations of various reptile monsters emerging from the primeval swamp.

## Examples

- The snake is a common reptile found in this desert.
- Many people enjoy keeping a reptile as a pet because they are often quiet and do not require daily walks.
- The museum's new exhibit features a diverse range of reptile species, highlighting the evolutionary adaptations that allow these creatures to thrive in both arid deserts and tropical rainforests.

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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.