crocodile

croc-o-dile · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A large predatory semiaquatic reptile with a long snout, powerful jaws, and a thick scaly hide, found in tropical regions.

  2. 2.

    (British informal) A line of schoolchildren walking in pairs.

  3. 3.

    Leather made from crocodile skin.

Forms

plural: crocodiles

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    crocodile tears — insincere or fake expressions of sorrow
  • •
    see you later, alligator / in a while, crocodile — playful farewell

Related words

See also: alligator, predator, reptile
Synonyms: croc

Etymology

From Greek krokodilos, originally meaning "lizard," probably from kroke meaning "pebbles" + drilos meaning "worm." The word entered English through Latin crocodilus.