Alligator

/ˈælɪˌɡeɪtər/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A large semi-aquatic reptile of the family Alligatoridae, found primarily in the Americas, characterized by a broad snout and a powerful tail.

As we drove through the swamp, we spotted an alligator basking in the sun.

A term sometimes used informally to refer to a person who is rapacious or ruthless.

The businessman was an alligator in the corporate world, always looking for opportunities to swallow up smaller companies.

From Spanish 'el lagarto' meaning 'the lizard'.

See you later, alligator

A playful way to say goodbye.

Alligator tears

Insincere emotions or faux sadness.

crocodile

Another large aquatic reptile, similar to alligators but belonging to a different family.

reptile

A cold-blooded vertebrate of a class that includes snakes, lizards, and turtles.

A person who is tough or aggressive.

She’s an alligator in the boardroom, never afraid to make tough decisions.

To swindle or cheat someone.

Don't let that guy alligator you; he's known for tricking people.