Snake: meaning, definitions and examples

General term for a long, legless reptile. Can be used in both casual and formal conversations to refer to these animals in a broad sense.

• I saw a snake in the garden
• There are many species of snakes in the world

Usually used in literature or mythology to describe snakes, often with a mystical or ominous connotation. It can imply something sneaky or evil.

• The ancient legend speaks of a mighty serpent
• The serpent in the story symbolizes temptation and danger

Specific type of snake known for its hood and is often mentioned in contexts related to danger or exotic animals.

• The cobra raised its hood when it felt threatened
• Cobras are commonly found in India

Specific type of venomous snake. Often used in contexts related to danger, toxicity, or sometimes metaphorically to describe a person with harmful intentions.

• The viper's bite can be very dangerous
• He was a viper, betraying anyone who trusted him

Use 'snake' to describe someone who is very deceitful and untrustworthy, often in a very sneaky or slimy way.

• People were shocked to discover he was a snake, betraying his best friends for money

Use 'traitor' to describe someone who betrays their country, cause, or a person who trusted them. This term is often used in a political or military context, but can also apply to personal relationships.

• He was labeled a traitor after he leaked confidential information to the enemy

Use 'backstabber' to describe someone who betrays others, especially friends or colleagues, behind their back. This word implies a sense of betrayal in a close relationship.

• She called him a backstabber after he spread rumors about her to get the promotion

Use 'deceiver' to describe someone who lies or tricks others, often causing them to believe something that is not true.

• The so-called friend turned out to be a deceiver, taking advantage of their trust

Used to describe something that moves in a winding or serpentine manner, often used figuratively or literally to describe the motion. It can also have a negative connotation when referring to a deceitful person.

• The river snaked through the valley.
• He snaked his way through the crowd.
• Watch out for him; he's a real snake.

Describes movement in a twisting or turning manner, similar to 'snake,' and is often used in a physical context like roads, paths, or even threads.

• The road winds up the mountain.
• She wound the thread around the spool.
• The hiking trail winds through the forest.

Used to describe a smooth, continuous bending line without angles. It's often used in geometry, physical movements, or design.

• The road curves gently to the left.
• She drew a perfect curve on the paper.
• Athletes need to know how to navigate the curves on the track.

Often used to describe a winding or indirect path, especially rivers. It can also describe a leisurely, aimless walk or journey.

• The river meanders through the countryside.
• We spent the afternoon meandering around the old town.
• His speech meandered and lacked focus.