*lacertilia*

‖n. pl. [ NL., fr. L. lacertus a lizard. ] (Zool.) An order of Reptilia, which includes the lizards. [ 1913 Webster ]

☞ They are closely related to the snakes, and like the latter, usually have the body covered with scales or granules. They usually have eyelids, and most of then have well-formed legs; but in some groups (amphisbæna, glass-snake, etc.) the legs are absent and the body is serpentlike. None are venomous, unless Heloderma be an exception. The order includes the chameleons, the Cionocrania, or typical lizards, and the amphisbænas. See Amphisbæna, Gecko, Gila monster, and Lizard. [ 1913 Webster ]