Cordylus is a genus of lizards found mainly in southern Africa and Madagascar. These lizards are well-known for their spiny and robust appearance which makes them stand out from other reptiles. There are various synonyms for the word "cordylus" that have been used over the years, including the common name "girdle-tailed lizards". These lizards got this name because of their long and thick tail that looks like a girdle. Other synonyms for cordylus include "armadillo lizards" and "spiny-tailed lizards", both of which describe their appearance and defensive mechanisms. Each of these synonyms highlights a unique characteristic of cordylus lizards, making them a fascinating and intriguing group of reptiles.