A1noun2K

Snake

UK /["/sneɪk/"]/US /["/sneɪk/"]/

Definition

a reptile with a very long thin body and no legs. There are many types of snake, some of which are poisonous.

In simple words: A long, thin reptile with no legs that can crawl.

Examples

  • The snake slithered through the grass.
  • She was scared when she saw a snake in the garden.
  • The kids at the zoo loved watching the big green snake.
  • In the game, you can choose to play as a snake.
  • Careful! That snake is venomous!

Usage notes

Used in both informal and formal contexts. 'Snake' can refer to the animal or be used metaphorically to describe someone sneaky. Avoid in overly serious discussions unless relevant.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a slithering snake — it moves in a 'S' shape.

Collocations

  • deadly
  • poisonous
  • venomous
  • bite somebody/​something
  • strike something
  • slide
  • bite
  • charmer
  • handler
  • a snake in the grass

Synonyms

  • reptile
  • serpent
  • vipers
  • adder
  • python

Antonyms

  • mammal
  • bird

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'snakes' when referring to multiple.
  • Omitting the article 'a' before 'snake' in sentences.
  • Mixing up 'serpent' and 'snake' as more formal types.