1. Plural of amphisbaena; mythical or legendary serpents with a head at each end of the body, capable of moving in either direction.
Usage: Chiefly used in classical mythology and fantasy literature; Singular form: amphisbaena
2. Any of various legless lizards of the genus Amphisbaena, found in tropical regions, with a blunt head and tail of similar appearance.
Usage: Zoological term; Also called worm lizards

Examples

• In ancient Greek mythology, amphisbaenas were fearsome creatures said to move backward as easily as forward.
• The amphisbaenas depicted in medieval bestiaries were often shown as two-headed serpents of great power.
• Zoologists study amphisbaenas to understand how legless lizards adapted to underground life.
• The worm-like amphisbaenas burrow through soil in search of insects and small prey.
• Fantasy authors have drawn inspiration from the legendary amphisbaenas for their own serpentine monsters.