iguana

noun

igua·​na i-ˈgwä-nə 

: any of various large chiefly herbivorous usually green or brownish tropical American lizards (family Iguanidae, the iguana family) that have a serrated dorsal crest and large dewlap

broadly : any of various large lizards

Illustration of iguana

Examples of iguana in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Watch cold iguana fall from tree, get bit by cat The security camera footage shows the iguana suddenly falling from the tree and landing on the concrete driveway. —Kinsey Crowley, USA TODAY, 29 Jan. 2025

The iguana drop-off occurs when temperatures reach a critical point for the non-native species. —Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 9 Jan. 2025

If temperatures rise as expected, the iguanas will warm up and return to their usual behavior. —Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 9 Jan. 2025

Refurbishment efforts will be conducted by a team of zoo artists and engineers and will include repairs to the iguana’s frame and a weather-resistant topcoat, according to the statement. —Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, from Arawak & Carib iwana

First Known Use

1555, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing iguana

• marine iguana

Kids Definition

iguana

noun

igua·​na i-ˈgwän-ə 

: any of various large plant-eating tropical American lizards that have a ridge of tall scales along the middle of the back and loose skin hanging below the neck