Meaning & Definition
noun
A long, legless reptile of the suborder Serpentes, characterized by a scaly body and the lack of limbs.
The gardener found a snake slithering through the grass.
A treacherous or deceitful person.
He felt betrayed when he discovered that his friend had acted like a snake.
A type of dance or movement resembling the movement of a snake.
The dancers moved in a snake-like rhythm, captivating the audience.
verb
To move or wind in a sinuous or winding manner.
The river snakes through the valley, creating beautiful landscapes.
Etymology
Old English 'snaca', from Proto-Germanic '*snakō' meaning 'to crawl'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
snake in the grass:
A deceitful or treacherous person.
snake oil:
A fraudulent remedy or scheme.
to snake one's way:
To move stealthily or cautiously through an area.
Slang Meanings
An untrustworthy person.
Ever since he took my money, I've seen him as a total snake.
To secretly steal or take something.
He snaked my lunch when I wasn't looking.