noun

chameleon

kuh-MEE-lee-uhn

Chameleon (noun) means a lizard famous for changing the color of its skin to match its surroundings or mood. Example: “The chameleon shifted from green to brown as it crawled onto the bark.”

noun

A lizard famous for changing the color of its skin to match its surroundings or mood.

"The chameleon shifted from green to brown as it crawled onto the bark."

"Zoo visitors watched the chameleon shoot out its long tongue to catch a fly."

A person who easily adapts their behavior or opinions to fit whatever situation or company they are in.

"He was a social chameleon, blending in effortlessly at both boardroom meetings and backyard barbecues."

How to use chameleon

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishEither the color-changing lizard, or (figuratively) someone who blends in and adapts to any environment.

Common pairings

a social chameleon change like a chameleon chameleon-like

Word forms

chameleons plural

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The _____ shifted from green to brown as it crawled onto the bark.

Etymology

From Greek khamaileon, literally "ground lion" (khamai, "on the ground" + leon, "lion") — an ancient name for the low-crawling reptile.

Origin: Greek

Synonyms

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Chamaeleon

Related words

chamaeleon

Rhymes for chameleon

Leon neon peon jeon Deon Cheon pigeon Simeon Gideon Joseon galleon dungeon

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Frequently asked questions

What does “chameleon” mean?

The word “chameleon” means a lizard famous for changing the color of its skin to match its surroundings or mood. In plain terms, either the color-changing lizard, or (figuratively) someone who blends in and adapts to any environment.

How do you pronounce “chameleon”?

“Chameleon” is pronounced kuh-MEE-lee-uhn (/kəˈmi.li.ən/ in IPA).

How do you use “chameleon” in a sentence?

Here is “chameleon” used in a sentence: “The chameleon shifted from green to brown as it crawled onto the bark.”

What part of speech is “chameleon”?

“Chameleon” is a noun.

Where does the word “chameleon” come from?

The word “chameleon” comes from Greek. From Greek khamaileon, literally "ground lion" (khamai, "on the ground" + leon, "lion") — an ancient name for the low-crawling reptile.

How many meanings does “chameleon” have?

“Chameleon” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a lizard famous for changing the color of its skin to match its surroundings or mood.

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