Where “Goanna” Comes From
“Goanna” is the Australian name for a large monitor lizard. The word comes from “iguana”, which early settlers used for the big lizards they saw. Australian goannas are not iguanas at all.
Many species live across Australia, from small desert lizards to big forest goannas that can climb trees.
“A goanna climbed up the gum tree.”
How Aussies Actually Use It
You’ll hear it on bush walks and camping trips, and in country stories.
In Real Life
Goannas are a familiar sight across the bush, and they often climb gum trees to escape trouble. They eat insects, eggs, small animals and carrion, and some are strong runners. Lace monitors in the east can grow over a metre long. They’re a protected native animal, so you should watch from a safe distance and keep dogs and kids away.
Quick Questions
Is a goanna dangerous?
They’re usually shy, but they can scratch and bite if cornered. Keep your distance.
Is a goanna an iguana?
No. The word comes from “iguana”, but goannas are monitor lizards, a different group.
Say It Like an Aussie
Say it: go-AN-uh.
In conversation:
- There’s a goanna in the yard.
- The goanna ran up the tree.
- We saw a goanna on the track.
Good to know: Goannas can scratch and bite if they feel cornered, so watch them from a distance and don’t feed them.
🎓 Want to sound like a true Aussie?
Watch Down Under English on YouTube for real Australian pronunciation, slang lessons, and culture.
Watch on YouTube →