What does reptilian mean?
Reptilian is an adjective meaning characteristic of reptiles or resembling them. It can describe physical features such as scales, claws, or cold, unblinking eyes, and it may also characterize movement that is low, crawling, or sinuous. In figurative use, “reptilian” suggests cold-bloodedness, predation, cunning, or an absence of humane feeling, especially when applied to a person's behavior or expression. The term also occurs in the familiar expression “reptilian brain,” a popular but scientifically simplified name for parts of the brain associated with instinctive reactions. Although “reptile” is the standard noun for an animal belonging to the reptile group, “reptilian” functions chiefly as an adjective; its noun use is literary or unusual. In both literal and figurative contexts, the word conveys something associated with reptiles: often an unsettling combination of physical difference, instinct, and apparent coldness.
Having the characteristics of a reptile, particularly scales, cold-blooded biology, or crawling movement.
"A reptilian tail lashed against the stones."
The figurative sense, describing cruel, calculating, or emotionally cold behavior, is common in literary and figurative contexts.
A reptile or a creature regarded as resembling or behaving like a reptile.
"The novel describes the ancient reptilian as emerging from the darkness."
The noun is uncommon and occurs mainly in literary, fantastical, or metaphorical contexts.
The plural is used chiefly for multiple reptile-like creatures or in literary and speculative contexts.
"The reptilians vanished into the jungle."
In popular psychology, the phrase “reptilian brain” describes the ancient, impulsive part of the human brain supposedly linked to survival instincts.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does reptilian come from?
“Reptilian” was formed in English from “reptile” with the suffix “-ian.” “Reptile” comes through French from Latin reptilis, meaning “creeping” or “crawling,” a derivative of Latin repere, “to crawl” or “to creep.” The same root appears in related English words such as “reptation” and “reptatory.” The word therefore originally referred to qualities associated with crawling animals and later acquired figurative uses for behavior perceived as cold or predatory.
Related word forms
How reptilian is actually used
As an adjective, “reptilian” is often figurative and emotionally charged. It can describe an animal, a body part, an appearance, or behavior perceived as cruel or calculating. The noun use is relatively uncommon.
Easily confused with reptilian
A reptile is a member of the biological group that includes snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodiles, whereas reptilian is primarily an adjective describing characteristic features of such animals.