gecko

noun, plural geck·os, geck·oes.

any of numerous small, mostly nocturnal tropical lizards of the family Gekkonidae, usually having toe pads that can cling to smooth surfaces: the largest species, Gekko gecko, is sometimes kept as a pet.

noun plural -os or -oes

any small insectivorous terrestrial lizard of the family Gekkonidae, of warm regions. The digits have adhesive pads, which enable these animals to climb on smooth surfaces

1774, from Malay gekoq, said to be imitative of its cry. Earlier forms were chacco (1711), jackoa (1727).