hellbender
hellbender Lexical Profile
hellbender Game Scores & Validity
• noun
North American A large, fully aquatic salamander native to the Appalachian Mountains and other parts of eastern and central North America, characterized by a flattened body, highly wrinkled skin, and a requirement for clean, fast-flowing streams.
"Because it relies on breathing through its skin, the hellbender is highly sensitive to poor water quality and serves as an important indicator species for river health."
American A reckless, energetic person, or a wild and riotous drinking spree.
"After months of rigorous labor in the logging camps, the crew headed into town for a weekend hellbender."
Word Origin & Etymology
American English, early 19th century. Likely named by early settlers because its bizarre, flattened appearance made it look like a creature that 'bent' its way out of hell, or reflecting its writhing movements.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.