amphisbaenian
amphisbaenian Lexical Profile
amphisbaenian Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Any of various legless, burrowing reptiles of the clade Amphisbaenia, native primarily to warm regions such as South America and Africa, characterized by a worm-like appearance and the ability to move backward as easily as forward.
"During the excavation in Brazil, the herpetologist uncovered a small amphisbaenian burrowing rapidly into the loose soil."
A mythical serpent from classical antiquity and medieval bestiaries that possesses a head at each end of its body.
"The ancient manuscript featured an intricate illustration of an amphisbaenian, its two heads locked in a fierce, eternal gaze."
• adjective
Relating to or characteristic of the legless reptiles known as worm lizards.
"The creature exhibited numerous amphisbaenian traits, notably its reduced eyes and rings of scales adapted for an underground lifestyle."
Capable of moving backward and forward, or characterized by having a head at both ends.
"The strange, amphisbaenian machine was designed to tunnel through the mountain without ever needing to turn around."
• Rhymes for amphisbaenian
Word Origin & Etymology
From Latin 'amphisbaena', deriving from the Greek 'amphisbaina' (a serpent that can go backwards or forwards), formed from 'amphis' (both ways) and 'bainein' (to go), combined with the English suffix '-ian'.