noun
basilisk
BAZ-ih-lisk/ˈbæzɪlɪsk/
A mythical reptile said to kill with its gaze.
The legend describes a basilisk whose deadly gaze terrifies the villagers.
Etymology
Basilisk literally means “little king.” According to Pliny, the serpent received this name because its head bore a crown-like crest or spot; its glance and breath were said to be fatal.
In context
birds flying overhead burst if the Basilisk stares at them too long. That's incredibly powerful for a small snake.
More examples
- A basilisk guards the treasure in the fantasy novel.
- Medieval artists imagined basilisks in several different forms.
- The hero avoids looking directly at the basilisk.
Forms
basilisk · basilisks
Similar words
- monster
- The broader category of frightening imaginary creatures.
- cockatrice
- A related legendary creature, often depicted with a rooster's features.