In European bestiaries and legends, a basilisk (/ˈbæsɪlɪsk/ or /ˈbæzɪlɪsk/) is a legendary reptile reputed to be a serpent king, who can cause death with a single glance. The word originates from the Greek form basilískos (Greek: βασιλίσκος (G935); Latin: basiliscus), which means “little king,” “little prince,” “chieftain,” or “young ruler.” (cf. Isaiah 59:5; Psalms 91:13 in the Greek Old Testament)
