alligator

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C1 — Advanced

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun leather made from alligator's hide
  2. noun either of two amphibious reptiles related to crocodiles but with shorter broader snouts
  3. verb crack and acquire the appearance of alligator hide, as from weathering or improper application; of paint and varnishes

Etymology

] From early Modern English alligater, alligarta, aligarto, alegarto, alagarto, from Spanish el lagarto (“the lizard”), from Latin lacertus (“lizard”), modern spelling possibly influenced by the unrelated Latin alligator (“one who binds”).

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