gator

/ˈɡeɪtər/
noun
  1. A short, informal word for alligator, a large reptile with a long snout and sharp teeth that lives in warm, wet areas.
    • We saw a big gator sunning itself on the riverbank.
    • The tour guide warned us not to get too close to the gator in the swamp.
    • My uncle caught a small gator with a fishing line and a strong hook.