Correct spelling, explanation: the word lizard refers to a type of reptile typically characterized by a long tail, four legs, and scaly skin. The spelling comes from Middle English lesarde, which itself was borrowed from Old French and ultimately derived from the Latin lacerta. The spelling lizzard is simply a common mistake, possibly due to doubling the wrong consonant by analogy with words like buzzard. However, English spelling rules generally don’t double the -z in words like lizard.

Definition of lizard:
Noun, a reptile that typically has a long body and tail, four legs, movable eyelids, and a rough, scaly, or spiny skin
A bright green lizard darted across the sun-warmed rock, blending perfectly with the surrounding foliage.
The pet store had a variety of reptiles, but the curious little lizard in the corner terrarium caught my attention.

Collocations with lizard:
Some of the most commonly used collocations include:
1. Lizard species: refers to specific types or varieties of lizards.
The Komodo dragon is the largest lizard species in the world.
2. Lizard habitat: the natural environment where lizards live, such as deserts, forests, or rocky areas.
The sandy desert provides the perfect lizard habitat due to its warm climate.
3. Lizard skin: refers to the scaly, textured surface of a lizard’s body. Also used metaphorically for fashion (e.g., accessories made from textured leather).
Some high-end handbags are crafted from ethically sourced lizard skin leather.
4. Lizard behavior: refers to typical actions or habits of lizards, such as basking in the sun or shedding skin.
Observing lizard behavior helps scientists understand their adaptation to changing climates.

Incorrect spelling, explanation: the spelling lizzard is a mistake due to the rules of English orthography and etymology. The correct word lizard comes from Latin lacerta via Old French lesarde. English adopted the word as lizard without doubling the -z. In English, doubling a consonant (like in buzzard) often occurs in specific situations, such as after short vowel sounds or with certain suffixes. However, the -i in lizard is not short enough to justify doubling the -z, and there’s no phonetic need for it.

Incorrect spelling