crocodile
UK: ˈkrɒkədaɪl | US: ˈkrɑːkədaɪl
n. a large predatory semiaquatic reptile with thick scaly skin, long jaws, and a long tail, native to tropical and subtropical regions.
crocodile = croco<pebble> + dile<worm>
- croco (from Greek krokodilos, originally krokē "pebble" + drilos "worm")
Refers to the reptile’s habit of basking on sun-warmed pebbles or its pebble-like skin texture. - dile (from Greek drilos, meaning "worm" or "slimy creature")
Likely describes the animal’s elongated, worm-like shape when moving in water.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Greek krokodilos, a compound of krokē (pebble) and drilos (worm). Ancient Greeks observed crocodiles lounging on riverbanks among stones, leading to the "pebble-worm" metaphor. The term later passed into Latin (crocodilus) and Old French (cocodrille), eventually evolving into the modern English spelling. The logic reflects both habitat (pebbles) and movement (worm-like), capturing the creature’s essence vividly.
The Nile crocodile is one of Africa’s most dangerous predators.
We spotted a crocodile sunbathing on the riverbank.
Crocodiles have remained virtually unchanged for millions of years.
The guide warned us not to swim in waters inhabited by crocodiles.
Her handbag was made of genuine crocodile leather.