1. a legendary reptile whose gaze or breath was said to be fatal
Usage: mythology
2. a type of tropical American lizard that can run across water surfaces
Usage: zoology

Examples

• The ancient myth described a basilisk that could kill with a single glance.
• Medieval bestiaries often featured illustrations of the fearsome basilisk.
• The basilisk lizard uses its speed to dash across pond surfaces.
• We watched the basilisk run on water to escape from predators.
• In the fantasy novel, the hero had to avoid looking directly at the basilisk.
• The green basilisk is commonly found in Central American rainforests.