Basilisk
/ˈbæ.zɪ.lɪsk/noun
A mythical reptile reputed to have the power to kill with a single glance.
Did you know?In medieval lore, the basilisk was considered the king of serpents, embodying both destruction and regal authority, often linked to alchemy and transformation.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
βασιλίσκος (basiliskos)
“Little king, referring to its status as a 'royal' creature.”
Late Latin
Latin
basiliscus
“Derived from Greek, denoting a legendary serpent believed to be lethal.”
Middle English
Middle English
basiliske
“Adopted from Old French, retaining the sense of a deadly reptilian creature.”
Modern English
English
basilisk
“Referring to the mythical creature, embodying both fear and fascination.”