Definition of toad

toadnoun

con cóc

/təʊd//təʊd/

The word "toad" has its roots in Old English. The earliest written records of the word date back to the 9th century. It is believed to have come from the Proto-Germanic word "tūdiz," which referred to a type of amphibian. This Proto-Germanic word is thought to have been derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "tewd," which meant "frog" or "toad." In Old English, the word "toad" was spelled "tōd" or "tōdor" and referred specifically to the European common toad (Bufo bufo). The word has remained relatively unchanged in Modern English, and its meaning has expanded to include other types of amphibians. Despite its ancient roots, the word "toad" is considered a native English word, having been part of the English language from its earliest recorded origins.

namespace

a small animal like a frog but with a drier and less smooth skin, that lives on land but breeds (= produces young) in water (= is an amphibian)

một loài động vật nhỏ như ếch nhưng có làn da khô hơn và kém mịn màng hơn, sống trên cạn nhưng sinh sản (= sinh con) trong nước (= là động vật lưỡng cư)

an unpleasant person

một người khó chịu

Example:
  • You repulsive little toad!

    Đồ con cóc đáng ghét!

Related words and phrases

Idioms

have, etc. a frog in your throat
to lose your voice or be unable to speak clearly for a short time