Serpent Meaning and Definition
Serpent
Pronunciation
/ˈsɝrpənt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A long, snake-like creature, typically harmless, found in tropical and subtropical regions.
Examples
- The serpent slithered through the grass with ease.
- Serpents are often found in gardens and lawns.
- The garden snake was mistaken for a serpent by the child.
- Serpents are harmless and do not attack humans.
- The serpent’s long body allowed it to swim through the water with ease.
Synonyms
- Snake
- Reptile
Etymology
The word “serpent” originates from the Old French term “serpent”, which itself comes from the Latin word “serpens”, meaning “creeping” or “moving slowly”.
Usage Notes
When referring to a long, snake-like creature, use the term “serpent” instead of “snake”, which typically refers to a smaller, venomous snake.
Cultural References
The serpent is a symbol in many cultures, often representing renewal, transformation, or rebirth. In Greek mythology, the serpent Ophidian represents wisdom and healing.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“To be in a serpent’s nest” means to be in a difficult or precarious situation, much like a serpent hiding in a nest.
Related Words or Phrases
- Snake
- Reptile
- Solid
Collocations
- Serpent oil
- Serpent’s nest
- Serpent’s tooth
Frequency of Use
The term “serpent” is relatively rare compared to other terms, but it is commonly used in scientific and cultural contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Serpen
- Serpentt
- Serpente