gecko

[ gek-oh ]

noun

, plural geck·os, geck·oes.

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.

gecko

/ 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

Word History and Origins

Origin of gecko¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of gecko¹

C18: from Malay ge'kok, of imitative origin

Example Sentences

As a common terms, the authors suggested "van Gogh’s starry dwarf gecko."

From Salon

When researchers discovered a gecko that reminded them of the paintings of van Gogh, they gave it the scientific name Cnemaspis vangoghi.

From Salon

Therefore, the team of Akshay Khandekar, Tejas Thackeray did Ishan Agarwal the only logical thing: They named the newly-discovered gecko after van Gogh, dubbing it with the scientific name Cnemaspis vangoghi.

From Salon

For people who prefer to use a common term, the authors suggest "Van Gogh’s starry dwarf gecko."

From Salon

The Van Gogh's starry dwarf gecko can reach 3.4 cm in length, with light blue spots on its back as well as a yellow head and forebody.

From Salon