[2][3] The generic name, Adolfus, is in honor of German explorer Duke Adolf Friedrich of Mecklenburg.

[4] Adolfus are typically relatively large lacertids measuring 55–84 mm (2.2–3.3 in) in snout–vent length (SVL),[3] except for the much smaller Adolfus masavaensis measuring only 39–56 mm (1.5–2.2 in).

[5] The tail is cylindrical, without lateral fringes, and relatively long, about 1.7–2 times SVL.

Based on Adolfus jacksoni, the clutch size is 3–5 eggs.

Adolfus alleni has been recorded as high as 4,500 m (14,800 ft) above sea level.