Langimage
English

Serpent

|ser/pent|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈsɜːrpənt/

🇬🇧

/ˈsɜːpənt/

(serpent)

large snake; deceitful person

Base FormPlural
serpentserpents
Etymology
Etymology Information

'serpent' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'serpens,' where 'serpere' meant 'to creep.'

Historical Evolution

'serpens' transformed into the Old French word 'serpent,' and eventually became the modern English word 'serpent' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a creeping creature,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a large snake or deceitful person.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a large snake, often used to refer to a mythical or symbolic snake.

The serpent slithered silently through the grass.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a treacherous or deceitful person.

He was a serpent in the boardroom, always plotting against his colleagues.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/31 12:41