Pronunciation

/pɪt ˈvaɪpər/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A pit viper is any venomous snake belonging to the subfamily Crotalinae, which includes rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths. They are characterized by heat-sensing pits located between the eyes and nostrils.

Examples

1. “Hikers should be cautious of encountering pit vipers in rocky or wooded areas.”

2. “The rattling sound of a pit viper’s tail serves as a warning signal to potential threats.”

Synonyms

1. Crotalid

2. Rattlesnake

Antonyms

1. None

Additional Information

Pit vipers are found in various habitats across the Americas, from deserts to forests, and play important roles in ecosystems as both predators and prey.