Category:Salamander

Sal"a*man`der, n. Etym: [f. salamandre, l. salamandra, gr. samander, Samandel.]

1. (zoöl.)

Defn: any one of numerous species of urodela, belonging to Salamandra, amblystoma, plethodon, and various allied genera, Especially those that are more or less terrestrial in their habits.

Note: the salamanders have, like lizards, an elongated body, four Feet, and a long tail, but are destitute of scales. They are true Amphibia, related to the frogs. Formerly, it was a superstition that The salamander could live in fire without harm, and even extinguish It by the natural coldness of its body. I have maintained that salamander of yours with fire any time this Two and thirty years. Shak. Whereas it is commonly said that a salamander extinguisheth fire, we Have found by experience that on hot coals, it dieth immediately. Sir T. Browne.

2. (zoöl.)

Defn: the pouched gopher (geomys tuza) of the southern united states.

3. A culinary utensil of metal with a plate or disk which is heated, And held over pastry, etc., to brown it.

4. A large poker. [prov. Eng.] Halliwell.

5. (metal.)

Defn: solidofied material in a furnace hearth. Giant salamander. (zoöl.) See under giant. -- salamander's hair or wool (min.), a species of asbestus or Mineral flax. [obs.] Bacon.