iguana

noun

igua·​na i-ˈgwä-nə How to pronounce iguana (audio)
: any of various large chiefly herbivorous usually green or brownish tropical American lizards (family Iguanidae, the iguana family) that have a serrated dorsal crest and large dewlap
broadly : any of various large lizards

Illustration of iguana

Illustration of iguana

Examples of iguana in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Kiwi, a male green iguana, boa constrictors and a tortoise were among the surprises shown to the audience of all ages. — Karie Angell Luc, Chicago Tribune, 5 May 2026 Michele Holtfreter planted fresh pentas in her yard this spring — only to find an iguana was tearing into her blossoms. — Ruth Abramovitz, Sun Sentinel, 6 June 2026 Another woman asked Graciela about her famous picture of the lady of the iguanas. — Literary Hub, 29 May 2026 Seaside Nature Park is home to wandering peacocks, ducks, chickens, pigs, iguanas, guinea fowls, and horses. — Megan Margulies, Travel + Leisure, 14 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for iguana

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, from Arawak & Carib iwana

First Known Use

1555, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of iguana was in 1555

Phrases Containing iguana

Rhymes for iguana

See All Rhymes for iguana

Browse Nearby Words

Iguaçú
iguana
iguanid
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Iguana.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/iguana. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

iguana

noun
igua·​na i-ˈgwän-ə How to pronounce iguana (audio)
: any of various large plant-eating tropical American lizards that have a ridge of tall scales along the middle of the back and loose skin hanging below the neck

More from Merriam-Webster on iguana

Nglish: Translation of iguana for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about iguana

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