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

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

Take a boat trip to see the rock iguanas at Little Water Cay or even a horseback ride that feels a bit like a swim with Provo Ponies. —Nina Kokotas Hahn, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 May 2023

The cayos—or keys—are plops of milky sand ringed by bright verdigris; the waters are roaming territory for squid, turtles, pelicans, and iguanas. —Lydia Bell, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 Dec. 2024

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