A lizard is a type of reptile with scaly skin, four legs, and usually a long tail. Most lizards are small enough to hold in your hand, though some species like the Komodo dragon can grow as long as a car. You'll find lizards on every continent except Antarctica, living everywhere from deserts to rainforests to suburban backyards.

Lizards are cold-blooded, which means they can't generate their own body heat like you do. Instead, they need to warm up by basking in the sun, which is why you often see them stretched out on rocks or walls on sunny days. When they get too hot, they scurry into the shade to cool down.

Many lizards can do something remarkable: if a predator grabs their tail, they can detach it and escape while the tail keeps wiggling to distract the attacker. The lizard then grows a new tail over time. Some lizards, like chameleons, can change color to blend into their surroundings or communicate with other lizards. Geckos can walk up walls and across ceilings using millions of tiny hairs on their feet.

The word lizard can also describe someone who lies in the sun for hours, or acts in a cold, unfeeling way, though this usage is less common than the literal meaning.