Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Mamba Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🐍
Add to dictionary

mamba

[ˈmɑːmbə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

snake species

The mamba is a highly venomous snake found in sub-Saharan Africa. It is part of the family Elapidae and is known for its speed and agility. There are four species of mambas: the black mamba, the green mamba, the eastern green mamba, and the western green mamba. Black mambas are particularly notorious for their potent venom, which can be fatal if not treated promptly. These snakes are often solitary and can be quite aggressive when threatened.

Synonyms

reptile, serpent.

Examples of usage

  • The black mamba is one of the deadliest snakes in the world.
  • While hiking in Africa, we encountered a green mamba basking in the sun.
  • Park rangers are trained to deal with mamba species due to their dangerous nature.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Wildlife

  • Black mambas are known to be one of the fastest snakes, capable of moving at speeds up to 12 mph (19 km/h).
  • Green mambas primarily live in trees and are more secretive than their black counterparts, showcasing a different lifestyle in the wild.
  • Mambas have potent venom that can cause death within hours if untreated, highlighting the importance of medical knowledge in snakebite incidents.

Cultural Significance

  • The dance known as mamba reflects the vibrant culture of Latin America, particularly its African roots, with rhythms that inspire energetic movements.
  • In popular culture, mamba has become associated with vibrant music and lively social gatherings, capturing the spirit of celebration.

Pop Culture

  • Kobe Bryant, an iconic basketball player, was nicknamed ‘Black Mamba’ as a symbol of his agility, strategic thinking, and killer instinct on the court.
  • The mamba dance often features in dance competitions and is recognized by its energetic rhythms, making it a favorite for social dancers.

Science

  • Mamba snakes use their fangs to deliver venom, which contains neurotoxins that affect the nervous system and can lead to paralysis.
  • Researchers study mamba venom to develop antivenoms and potential medical treatments due to its complex chemical composition.

Origin of 'mamba'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'mamba' comes from the Zulu language, referring specifically to the black mamba, one of the most venomous snakes.
  • Mamba in the context of dance is derived from African music and dance traditions, showcasing movement that mirrors the snake's agility.

The word 'mamba' originates from the Zulu language of South Africa, where it refers to a certain species of snake. The term gained prominence in English usage in the 19th century as European naturalists began to describe and categorize various species of snakes in Africa. The black mamba was specifically noted for its aggressive behavior and potent venom, which contributed to the snake's lore and reputation in popular culture. Over time, the term has come to encompass various species within the genus Dendroaspis, influencing both scientific nomenclature and colloquial usage.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,334, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.