noun

gecko

GEHK-oh

Gecko (noun) means a small lizard, often nocturnal, known for its large eyes and its ability to climb smooth vertical surfaces. Example: “A gecko clung to the ceiling near the porch light.”

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noun

A small lizard, often nocturnal, known for its large eyes and its ability to climb smooth vertical surfaces.

"A gecko clung to the ceiling near the porch light."

"Geckos are popular pets because they're small and easy to keep."

How to use gecko

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA small lizard famous for climbing walls and ceilings.

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

geckoed past tense, geckos plural, geckoes plural, geckos singular

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Fill the gap

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A _____ clung to the ceiling near the porch light.

Etymology

Believed to have entered English via Dutch gekko, ultimately imitating the clicking or chirping sound the lizard makes.

Origin: Dutch

Frequently asked questions

What does “gecko” mean?

The word “gecko” means a small lizard, often nocturnal, known for its large eyes and its ability to climb smooth vertical surfaces. In plain terms, a small lizard famous for climbing walls and ceilings.

How do you pronounce “gecko”?

“Gecko” is pronounced GEHK-oh (/ˈɡɛk.oʊ/ in IPA).

How do you use “gecko” in a sentence?

Here is “gecko” used in a sentence: “A gecko clung to the ceiling near the porch light.”

What part of speech is “gecko”?

“Gecko” is a noun.

Where does the word “gecko” come from?

The word “gecko” comes from Dutch. Believed to have entered English via Dutch gekko, ultimately imitating the clicking or chirping sound the lizard makes.

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Words with Dutch origins