iguana

noun

igua·​na i-ˈgwä-nə How to pronounce iguana (audio)
: 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

Illustration of iguana

Examples of iguana in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
According to the reptile specialist, the iguanas have long, thin tails that can stretch to almost three times the length of their bodies. Saleen Martin, USA Today, 10 Sep. 2025 The Eastern casquehead iguana species is from Mexico and Central America. Angel Saunders, PEOPLE, 10 Sep. 2025 Several animals — including iguanas, a bearded dragon, a turtle and two dogs — were also found uncared for, some appearing close to death from malnourishment, in the basement, authorities said. Tess Kenny, Chicago Tribune, 29 Aug. 2025 During a stay, visitors are welcome to get acquainted with the resident iguanas and paddle along the shoreline in search of colorful reef fish, all while enjoying palatial accommodations and fine dining along the way. Jared Ranahan, Forbes.com, 24 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for iguana

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, from Arawak & Carib iwana

First Known Use

1555, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of iguana was in 1555

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Cite this Entry

“Iguana.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/iguana. Accessed 14 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

iguana

noun
igua·​na i-ˈgwän-ə How to pronounce iguana (audio)
: 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

More from Merriam-Webster on iguana

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