water lizard
noun
(Originally) any of various lizards or lizard-like animals living in or near water, especially a newt (family Salamandridae) (now rare ); (in later use) specifically a monitor lizard (family Varanidae), especially one that is a strong swimmer.
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Origin
Early 17th century; earliest use found in Edward Topsell (d. 1625), Church of England clergyman and author.