chameleon
A chameleon is a small, colorful lizard that changes its appearance to blend in with its surroundings. It's also someone or something that can easily change their behavior or character.
When we talk about a chameleon, people usually mean one of two things: either the animal itself, which can be seen in zoos and sometimes even kept as pets. The other meaning is more figurative - it describes someone who changes the way they act to fit in with a particular group or situation. For example, if you're talking to a coworker about their weekend plans, but then suddenly switch to discussing politics when your boss walks by, you might be acting like a chameleon. It can also mean something that's adaptable and can easily change its shape, size, or function - like a tool that can be used for different tasks.
How common is "chameleon"?
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.
noun
A small to mid-size reptile, of the family Chamaeleonidae, and one of the best known lizard families able to change color and project its long tongue.
adjective
Describing something that changes color.
Example: The wall was covered with a chameleon paint.
Real examples of "chameleon" in context
