parson chameleon
parson chameleon Lexical Profile
• noun
A massive species of chameleon endemic to the humid, primary forests of eastern and northern Madagascar, characterized by its heavy build, vibrant coloration, and the prominent rostral ridges found on the snouts of males.
"Due to habitat loss in Madagascar, the Parson chameleon is highly protected and tightly regulated in the international pet trade."
Word Nuance & Usage
While commonly written as 'parson chameleon', the scientifically accurate vernacular name is 'Parson's chameleon', as it was named in honor of a specific historical figure.
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Named after the 18th-century British physician and antiquary James Parsons, to whom the species (Calumma parsonii) was dedicated. The word 'chameleon' comes from the Latin 'chamaeleon', derived from Greek 'khamailéōn', meaning 'earth lion'.