Plural of chameleon; small lizards known for their ability to change skin color to match their surroundings or express emotions.
From Greek 'chamai' (on the ground) + 'leon' (lion), literally 'ground lion.' The name reflected ancient beliefs about these creatures. Over time, 'chameleon' became a metaphor for someone who changes opinions or appearances frequently.
Chameleons don't actually change color to camouflage as much as we think—they primarily change color to communicate with other chameleons or regulate body temperature! Their color-changing ability is controlled by special cells called chromatophores that reflect light rather than produce pigment.
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