gecko

[ gek-oh ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

, plural geck·os, geck·oes.

any of numerous small, mostly nocturnal tropical lizards of the family Gekkonidae, usually having toe pads that can cling to smooth surfaces: the largest species, Gekko gecko, is sometimes kept as a pet.

gecko

/ ˈɡɛkəʊ /

any small insectivorous terrestrial lizard of the family Gekkonidae, of warm regions. The digits have adhesive pads, which enable these animals to climb on smooth surfaces

Origin of gecko¹

1705–15; < New Latin gekko < Dutch; origin uncertain; alleged to be a Malay word imitative of the lizard's call.

Origin of gecko¹

C18: from Malay ge'kok, of imitative origin

Locally this gecko is known as escorpin; the natives believe it to be deadly poisonous.

Another quaint lizard, was what is generally known as the gecko.

Although I am very fond of the nimble little gecko, I must admit that he is an out-and-out glutton.

The lachrymal duct first appears in the tailed amphibians; in snakes and gecko lizards, however, it opens into the mouth.

The cry of the small house lizard, a kind of gecko, is unlucky in certain conditions.

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