Found 2 items, similar to basilisk.
English → English (WordNet) Definition: basilisk basilisk n 1: (classical mythology) a serpent (or lizard or dragon) able to kill with its breath or glance 2: ancient brass cannon 3: small crested arboreal lizard able to run on its hind legs; of tropical America
English → English (gcide) Definition: Basilisk Basilisk \Bas"i*lisk\, n. [L. basiliscus, Gr. basili`skos little king, kind of serpent, dim. of basiley`s king; -- so named from some prominences on the head resembling a crown.] 1. A fabulous serpent, or dragon. The ancients alleged that its hissing would drive away all other serpents, and that its breath, and even its look, was fatal. See Cockatrice. [1913 Webster] Make me not sighted like the basilisk. --Shak. [1913 Webster] 2. (Zo["o]l.) A lizard of the genus Basiliscus, belonging to the family Iguanid[ae]. [1913 Webster] Note: This genus is remarkable for a membranous bag rising above the occiput, which can be filled with air at pleasure; also for an elevated crest along the back, that can be raised or depressed at will. [1913 Webster] 3. (Mil.) A large piece of ordnance, so called from its supposed resemblance to the serpent of that name, or from its size. [Obs.] [1913 Webster]