serpent

//ˈsɜːpənt//
C1Frequency Level 11Literary
Visual representation of serpent

Noun

serpentSingular
serpentsPlural
1

A large snake, especially one that is venomous or mythical.

In ancient myths, a fearsome serpent guarded the golden treasure.

2

A sly, treacherous, or deceitful person.

Be careful of him; he's a serpent who will betray you without hesitation.

3

In biblical and mythological contexts, a symbol of evil, temptation, or cunning.

In the Garden of Eden, the serpent tempted Eve to eat the forbidden fruit.