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Definition of nile monitor

nile monitor

Plural:nile monitors
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nile monitor Lexical Profile

• noun

1

A large, semi-aquatic species of monitor lizard native to Sub-Saharan Africa and the Nile River basin, characterized by its muscular body, powerful tail, and opportunistic carnivorous diet.

Example

"During our safari along the riverbank, we spotted a massive Nile monitor basking in the sun near a pod of hippos."

• Nearby Words

nila
nile
nile crocodile
nile monitor
nile perch
nilgai
nine-banded armadillo

Word Origin & Etymology

Named for the Nile River, which represents its native African riverine habitat, combined with 'monitor', a traditional common name for lizards of the genus Varanus (derived from Latin 'monere', meaning 'to warn', based on an erroneous belief that they warned of crocodiles).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Nile monitor. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/nile monitor
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