\Toad\, n. [OE. tode, tade, AS. t[=a]die, t[=a]dige; of
unknown origin. Cf. {Tadpole}.] (Zo["o]l.)
Any one of numerous species of batrachians belonging to the
genus {Bufo} and allied genera, especially those of the
family {Bufonid[ae]}. Toads are generally terrestrial in
their habits except during the breeding season, when they
seek the water. Most of the species burrow beneath the earth
in the daytime and come forth to feed on insects at night.
Most toads have a rough, warty skin in which are glands that
secrete an acrid fluid.
Note: The common toad ({Bufo vulgaris}) and the natterjack
      are familiar European species. The common American toad
      ({B. lentiginosus}) is similar to the European toad,
      but is less warty and is more active, moving chiefly by
      leaping.
{Obstetrical toad}. (Zo["o]l.) See under {Obstetrical}.
{Surinam toad}. (Zo["o]l.) See {Pita}.
{Toad lizard} (Zo["o]l.), a horned toad.
{Toad pipe} (Bot.), a hollow-stemmed plant ({Equisetum
   limosum}) growing in muddy places. --Dr. Prior.
{Toad rush} (Bot.), a low-growing kind of rush ({Juncus
   bufonius}).
{Toad snatcher} (Zo["o]l.), the reed bunting. [Prov. Eng.]
{Toad spittle}. (Zo["o]l.) See {Cuckoo spit}, under {Cuckoo}.
{Tree toad}. (Zo["o]l.) See under {Tree}.