gecko

American  

[gek-oh] / ˈgɛk oʊ /

noun

plural

geckos, geckoes

1. any of numerous small, mostly nocturnal tropical lizards of the family Gekkonidae, usually having toe pads that can cling to smooth surfaces: the largest species, Gekko gecko, is sometimes kept as a pet.

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gecko British  

/ ˈɡɛkəʊ /

noun

1. any small insectivorous terrestrial lizard of the family Gekkonidae, of warm regions. The digits have adhesive pads, which enable these animals to climb on smooth surfaces

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Etymology

Origin of gecko

1705–15; < New Latin gekko < Dutch; origin uncertain; alleged to be a Malay word imitative of the lizard's call.

Example Sentences

At this school, that included the three monitors, plus a group of geckos who played in the school marching band, and a Komodo dragon with terrible breath who everyone—mammal, bird, and lizard alike—avoided.

From Literature

Some species have physical traits that serve as models for new materials and technologies, such as surfaces designed to mimic the "super-clinging" feet that allow geckos to scale vertical walls.

From Science Daily

Ama sidesteps a spotted gecko using a rock as a tanning bed.

From Literature

Spanish police announced on Saturday they had raided a unlicensed animal sanctuary and rescued hundreds of exotic creatures including leopard tortoises, iguanas and geckos.

From Barron's

When dust clings to a surface or a gecko walks across a ceiling, it happens thanks to what scientists call "nature's invisible glue."

From Science Daily