Definition

A type of lizard that has no legs and looks like a snake, found mainly in Europe and parts of Asia and Africa. It usually eats slugs and is also known as a blindworm.

Example

We spotted a slowworm sunbathing on the warm rocks in the garden.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a slowworm in the garden?

No, I haven't! What do they look like?

They're actually quite fascinating; they look like snakes but are lizards.

That sounds interesting! I should keep an eye out for one.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Slowworm → The word 'slowworm' is formed from 'slow' (from Old English 'slāw', meaning not fast) and 'worm' (from Old English 'wyrm', meaning serpent or snake). The term describes a creature that is a slow-moving snake-like lizard.

Memory Tip

Think of a creature that is 'not fast' ('slow') and resembles a 'snake' ('worm'). This helps you remember that a slowworm is a slow-moving, snake-like lizard.

Visually Confused Words