Snakelike Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
snakelike
[หsneษชklaษชk ]
Definition
physical description
Describing something that resembles or is characteristic of a snake, particularly in its shape or movement. Snakelike can imply being sinuous, agile, or deceitful.
Synonyms
curvy, serpentine, sinuous, winding.
Examples of usage
- He moved in a snakelike manner through the crowd.
- The plant had snakelike tendrils that curled around the trellis.
- She gave him a snakelike smile, full of mischief.
- The river had a snakelike curve as it wound through the valley.
Translations
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Origin of 'snakelike'
The term 'snakelike' is derived from the word 'snake' combined with the suffix '-like', indicating similarity or resemblance. The word 'snake' itself originates from the Old English 'snaca', which is related to the Proto-Germanic 'snak-' meaning 'to creep' or 'to move stealthily'. This lineage reflects the behavior and characteristics often associated with snakes, such as their elongated bodies and gliding movements. The addition of '-like' in English showcases a common linguistic practice of forming adjectives from nouns to convey likeness. By the early 19th century, 'snakelike' began to be used figuratively to describe anything with qualities reminiscent of a snake, such as cunning or treachery, expanding its application beyond mere physical resemblance.