American alligator

noun

: the alligator (Alligator mississipiensis) of the southeastern U.S. occasionally reaching 16 feet in length with a tough hide much sought for leather

Word History

First Known Use

1758, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of American alligator was in 1758

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Dictionary Entries Near American alligator

American alder

American alligator

American allspice

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“American alligator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/American%20alligator. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

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