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Definition of mangrove monitor
mangrove monitor
Plural:mangrove monitors
mangrove monitor Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
8
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
A widely distributed species of carnivorous monitor lizard native to northern Australia, New Guinea, and various Pacific islands, typically inhabiting mangrove swamps, coastal forests, and riparian zones.
Example
"During our boat tour through the tropical estuary, we spotted a large mangrove monitor basking on a low-hanging branch."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
The name combines 'mangrove', derived from Portuguese 'mangue' or Spanish 'mangle' and English 'grove', denoting its primary habitat, with 'monitor', from Latin 'monitor' (one who warns), historically applied to these lizards because they were believed to warn of the presence of crocodiles.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Mangrove monitor. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 13, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/mangrove monitor