1.
crocodile; alligator
A large semi-aquatic reptile with a long snout, powerful jaws, and a long tail. The Japanese word encompasses both crocodiles and alligators.
A crocodile approached while I was swimming in the river, so I fled in a hurry.
鰐 refers to both crocodiles and alligators. To distinguish them:
- 鰐 or クロコダイル (crocodile)
- アリゲーター (alligator specifically)
Common expressions:
Counter: 匹 or 頭 (for large individuals)
Cultural note:
In Japanese mythology, 鰐 sometimes appears as a sea creature (possibly referring to sharks in ancient texts). In the Kojiki, the deity Toyotama-hime transformed into a 鰐 during childbirth.