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fence lizard

American  

noun

  1. either of two spiny lizards, Sceloporus undulatus and S. occidentalis, of the U.S. and northern Mexico, often seen on fences.


Etymology

Origin of fence lizard

An Americanism dating back to 1865–70

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

If you happen to spot a fence lizard, look closely.

From Los Angeles Times Apr. 25, 2025

With more than 130,000 verified identifications in the state, the fence lizard is the center of attention.

From Los Angeles Times Apr. 25, 2025

With the 10th City Nature Challenge — a four-day “bioblitz” competition to document urban animals and plants — beginning this week, now seems the perfect time to celebrate our friendly neighborhood fence lizard.

From Los Angeles Times Apr. 25, 2025

In Los Angeles County, it was the Western fence lizard, followed by the western honey bee.

From New York Times May 15, 2023

One species is found in the United States and is known under various names, such as the green lizard, the fence lizard and the alligator lizard.

From Pathfinder or, The Missing Tenderfoot by Douglas, Alan

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