Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Adder: meaning, definitions and examples

🐍
Add to dictionary

adder

 

[ˈadər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

venomous snake

A small venomous snake found in North America, Europe, and Asia. Adders have the ability to change color to match their surroundings and are known for their distinctive zigzag pattern along their backs.

Synonyms

serpent, snake, viper.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
adder

Used to refer to a small, venomous snake, particularly in the UK. Often found in fields, woods, and coastal dunes.

  • We saw an adder basking in the sun during our hike.

Examples of usage

  • The hiker was bitten by an adder while walking through the forest.
  • Adders are commonly found in grassy areas and woodlands.
Context #2 | Noun

calculator

A device or electronic circuit for adding numbers or quantities.

Synonyms

adding machine, calculator.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
adder

This word also refers to a type of snake, specifically a venomous one. This use is common in discussing wildlife.

  • They spotted an adder in the bushes during their hike
calculator

Best used to describe a device or software application for performing various mathematical operations, not limited to addition. It is the most common term for such a device today.

  • She grabbed her calculator to check the complex math problem
adding machine

Refer to an old mechanical or electronic device used for adding numbers, often found in office environments before the widespread use of modern calculators.

  • The secretary used an adding machine to sum the daily receipts

Examples of usage

  • She used an adder to calculate the total expenses for the month.
  • The adder displayed the sum of the two numbers on its screen.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'adder' comes from Old English 'ædere,' which means 'snake.'
  • The term 'adder' is often associated with the phrase 'the adder's bite,' highlighting its potential danger.

Ecology

  • Adders are the only venomous snakes found in the UK.
  • They are often spotted basking in the sun during spring and can be found in a variety of habitats including heathland, grassland, and near wetlands.

Cultural Significance

  • In folklore, adders have often been seen as symbols of danger or treachery, often depicted alongside stories of betrayal.
  • In some cultures, adders are revered or seen as protectors, highlighting their dual symbolic role.

Behavioral Traits

  • Adders can change color depending on their environment, serving as camouflage against predators.
  • They are generally shy and will avoid confrontation, often retreating if approached.

Conservation

  • Adders are currently considered a species of concern in many regions due to habitat loss.
  • Conservation efforts are in place to protect their natural habitats and promote awareness of their ecological role.

Translations

Translations of the word "adder" in other languages:

🇵🇹 soma

🇮🇳 जोड़ने वाला (joḍane vālā)

🇩🇪 Addierer

🇮🇩 penambah

🇺🇦 додавальник

🇵🇱 dodawacz

🇯🇵 加算器 (kasan-ki)

🇫🇷 additionneur

🇪🇸 sumador

🇹🇷 toplayıcı

🇰🇷 덧셈기 (deotssemgi)

🇸🇦 جامع (jāmiʿ)

🇨🇿 sčítač

🇸🇰 sčítačka

🇨🇳 加法器 (jiāfǎ qì)

🇸🇮 seštevalnik

🇮🇸 samanlagari

🇰🇿 қосқыш (qosqys)

🇬🇪 დამატება (damateba)

🇦🇿 əlavə edən (əlavə edən)

🇲🇽 sumador

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,068, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.