amphisbaena

/ˌæmfɪsˈbiːnə/
noun
  1. A mythical serpent or lizard with a head at each end, able to move in either direction.
    • Medieval bestiaries described the amphisbaena as a creature with eyes glowing like lamps.
    • The hero fought a terrifying amphisbaena that guarded the treasure.
    • In ancient myths, the amphisbaena could bite with either of its two heads.
  2. A burrowing legless lizard of the family Amphisbaenidae, found in tropical regions, with a blunt head and tail that resemble each other.
    • The amphisbaena uses its strong head to dig tunnels in the soil.
    • We spotted an amphisbaena wriggling under a log in the rainforest.
    • Unlike snakes, the amphisbaena has a distinct ringed body and tiny scales.
Synonyms
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