BASILISK
| Pronunciation: | | 'basulisk
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| Matching Terms: | | Basiliscus
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 WordNet Dictionary |
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| | Definition: | |
- [n] small crested arboreal lizard able to run on its hind legs; of tropical America
- [n] ancient brass cannon
- [n] (classical mythology) a serpent (or lizard or dragon) able to kill with its breath or glance
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| | See Also: | | Basiliscus, cannon, genus Basiliscus, iguanid, iguanid lizard, mythical creature, mythical monster | |
| Webster's 1913 Dictionary |
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| | Definition: | | \Bas"i*lisk\, n. [L. basiliscus, Gr. ? little king,
kind of serpent, dim. of ? king; -- so named from some
prominences on the head resembling a crown.]
1. A fabulous serpent, or dragon. The ancients alleged that
its hissing would drive away all other serpents, and that
its breath, and even its look, was fatal. See
{Cockatrice}.
Make me not sighted like the basilisk. --Shak.
2. (Zo["o]l.) A lizard of the genus {Basiliscus}, belonging
to the family {Iguanid[ae]}.
Note: This genus is remarkable for a membranous bag rising
above the occiput, which can be filled with air at
pleasure; also for an elevated crest along the back,
that can be raised or depressed at will.
3. (Mil.) A large piece of ordnance, so called from its
supposed resemblance to the serpent of that name, or from
its size. [Obs.]
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| Easton Bible Dictionary |
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| | Definition: | | (in R.V., Isa. 11:8; 14:29; 59:5; Jer. 8:17), the "king serpent," as the name imports; a fabulous serpent said to be three spans long, with a spot on its head like a crown. Probably the yellow snake is intended. (See COCKATRICE.) |
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