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How do you spell Alligator?

Correct spelling

alligator

Remember the Spanish origin: ALL-I-GATOR keeps all three syllables clear.

Why is alligator spelled this way?

From Spanish el lagarto, the lizard. English speakers heard the Spanish article and noun as one word, transforming the lizard into the alligator through centuries of mispronunciation.

Common misspellings of alligator

aligatorallegatorallagator

Example

The alligator basked motionlessly on the muddy riverbank in the Florida Everglades.

Frequently asked questions

How do you spell alligator?+
The correct spelling is "alligator". Remember the Spanish origin: ALL-I-GATOR keeps all three syllables clear.
Is it aligator or alligator?+
The correct spelling is "alligator", not "aligator".

Other commonly misspelled words

fettuccine fewer fiasco fiber

More spelling guides

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