Meaning of the word amphisbaena in English

What does amphisbaena mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

amphisbaena

US /ˌæm.fɪsˈbiː.nə/
UK /ˌæm.fɪsˈbiː.nə/
"amphisbaena" picture

Noun

1.

a mythical serpent with a head at each end, allowing it to move in either direction

Example:
The ancient texts described a fearsome amphisbaena guarding the treasure.
The artist depicted the amphisbaena with two distinct heads.
2.

a genus of legless lizards, found mainly in tropical America and Africa, that burrow underground and have a short tail resembling a head

Example:
The zoologist studied the unique burrowing habits of the real-life amphisbaena.
Despite their snake-like appearance, amphisbaenas are actually a type of lizard.