basilisk

English

/ˈbæs.ɪ.lɪsk/

noun
Definitions
  • A mythical (and heraldic) snake-like dragon type, reputed to be so venomous that its gaze was deadly.
  • (heraldiccharge) A type of dragon used in heraldry.
  • A tree-dwelling type of lizard of the genus - the basilisk lizard
  • A type of large brass cannon.

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English basilisk derived from Old French basilique derived from Latin basiliscus derived from Ancient Greek βασιλίσκος (little king, imperial, royal).

Origin

Ancient Greek

βασιλίσκος

Gloss

little king, imperial, royal

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms