A skink is a small, smooth-scaled lizard with short legs and a long tail. You’ll often see it scurrying across garden paths or sunbathing on rocks.
In everyday life, “skink” pops up in conversations about backyard wildlife or pet reptiles. People might say, “Look, a skink just ran under the porch,” or ask, “Do skinks bite if I pick one up?” Kids love spotting them, and gardeners appreciate them for eating insects.
Meaning & Usage Examples
Skink (noun): A harmless lizard with shiny, close-fitting scales.
• “We left the door open and a little skink dashed inside.”
• “My cousin keeps a blue-tongued skink as a pet.”
Context / Common Use
You’ll hear the word most when talking about nature, pets, or pest control. Gardeners welcome skinks because they snack on slugs and bugs. Pet owners talk about lighting and diet when raising a skink in a terrarium.
Is a skink dangerous to humans?
No. Skinks are shy and not venomous; they usually run away if you get close.
Can I keep a skink as a pet?
Yes, some species like the blue-tongued skink are popular pets, but check local laws and provide proper heat and food.
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