Definitions for: Basilisk

[n] small crested arboreal lizard able to run on its hind legs; of tropical America
[n] ancient brass cannon
[n] (classical mythology) a serpent (or lizard or dragon) able to kill with its breath or glance

Webster (1913) Definition: Bas"i*lisk, n. [L. basiliscus, Gr. ? little king,
kind of serpent, dim. of ? king; -- so named from some
prominences on the head resembling a crown.]
1. A fabulous serpent, or dragon. The ancients alleged that
its hissing would drive away all other serpents, and that
its breath, and even its look, was fatal. See
Cockatrice.

Make me not sighted like the basilisk. --Shak.

2. (Zo["o]l.) A lizard of the genus Basiliscus, belonging
to the family Iguanid[ae].

Note: This genus is remarkable for a membranous bag rising
above the occiput, which can be filled with air at
pleasure; also for an elevated crest along the back,
that can be raised or depressed at will.

3. (Mil.) A large piece of ordnance, so called from its
supposed resemblance to the serpent of that name, or from
its size. [Obs.]

See Also: Basiliscus, cannon, genus Basiliscus, iguanid, iguanid lizard, mythical creature, mythical monster

Try our:
Scrabble Word Finder

Scrabble Cheat

Words With Friends Cheat

Hanging With Friends Cheat

Scramble With Friends Cheat

Ruzzle Cheat

Related Resources:
click here
animlas that start with k
animals starting with o