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Serpentine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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serpentine

[ˈsɜː.pən.taɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

green gemstone

Serpentine is a green mineral that is often used as a gemstone. It is typically found in serpentinite rocks and is known for its unique color variations and patterns.

Synonyms

greenstone, ophite.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
serpentine

Refer to the first definition.
greenstone

Commonly used to describe a variety of green-hued metamorphic rocks, frequently used in archaeology to refer to ancient stone tools or ornaments made from these rocks.

  • The museum's collection includes several tools made from greenstone.
  • Greenstone artifacts were highly valued by the ancient civilization.
ophite

Primarily used in geology to specify a type of rock consisting mainly of serpentine and ophiorite, often found in ophitic textures.

  • The geologist identified the sample as ophite.
  • Ophite formations are common in this region.

Examples of usage

  • She wore a beautiful necklace made of serpentine.
  • The serpentine stone had intricate swirls of green and brown.
Context #2 | Noun

windy road

Serpentine can also refer to a winding or twisting road, especially one that follows a winding course up a steep hill or mountain.

Synonyms

curving, twisty.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
serpentine

The word 'serpentine' describes something that twists and turns like a snake, often with elegant or mysterious connotations. It is frequently used in literature and descriptive writing to evoke a vivid image.

  • The path through the forest was serpentine, winding gracefully among the ancient trees.
  • Her serpentine movements on the dance floor captivated everyone.
twisty

The term 'twisty' is informal and can describe something with a lot of sharp, abrupt turns. It often carries a playful or casual tone and can be used to describe roads, stories, or anything with lots of sudden changes.

  • The twisty mountain roads made the drive both exciting and a bit nerve-wracking.
  • She loved reading twisty mystery novels that kept her guessing until the very end.
curving

'Curving' is a more general term that simply indicates a bend or curve without any specific connotations. It’s suitable for everyday descriptions of roads, lines, and other objects that bend.

  • The curving road made the drive to the countryside scenic and enjoyable.
  • He admired the elegant, curving lines of the modern sculpture.

Examples of usage

  • The serpentine road offered stunning views of the valley below.
  • We had to drive slowly along the serpentine path to avoid accidents.

Translations

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

Origin of 'serpentine'

The word 'serpentine' originated from the Latin word 'serpentinus', meaning 'of a serpent', due to its resemblance to the skin of a snake. The use of 'serpentine' to describe a winding road comes from the resemblance of the road's twists and turns to the movements of a serpent.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,651, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.