What does skink mean?
A skink is a small to medium-sized lizard belonging to the family Scincidae. Characterized by its long, slender body and short legs, the skink is a common sight in many parts of the world. There are over 1,500 species of skinks, ranging in size, color, and habitat. Skinks are often found in gardens, backyards, and rocky outcroppings, where they feed on insects and small invertebrates. They are generally harmless to humans and play an important role in many ecosystems. The term 'skink' is sometimes used informally to refer to any small lizard, but technically refers specifically to members of the Scincidae family.
nounA small to medium-sized lizard of the family Scincidae, characterized by a long, slender body and short legs.
- A type of lizard
- A specific genus or species of lizard
"The skink scurried across the rocky outcropping, its shiny scales catching the sunlight."
"The skink is a common sight in gardens and backyards."
"The eastern skink is a protected species in some areas."
The plural form 'skinks' is used to refer to multiple individuals of the species.
"The garden was home to several skinks."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of skink
The word 'skink' has its roots in the Old English word 'scinca', which referred to a type of lizard. This word is thought to have been derived from the Proto-Germanic word '*skinkiz', which is also the source of the Modern German word 'Schildkröte', meaning 'turtle'. The term 'skink' has been used in English since the 14th century to refer to various types of lizards.
Usage notes
The term 'skink' is often used informally to refer to any small lizard, but technically refers to members of the family Scincidae.