# scaly

/skˈeɪli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scaly
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

covered in small, flat pieces of skin that overlap each other. You use this to describe animals like fish or reptiles, or even a dry, flaky skin condition.

For teachers: covered with small, overlapping plates or scales; having a dry, flaky surface. Often used to describe the integument of fish, reptiles, or amphibians, or a dermatological condition in humans.

## Examples

- The fish has a shiny, scaly body.
- After swimming in the ocean all day, his skin felt dry and scaly from the saltwater.
- The gecko's scaly skin provides a natural camouflage against the rough, sun-baked rocks of its desert habitat, allowing it to remain hidden from predators.

---

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.