Puff Adder (Noun)
Meaning 1
Harmless North American snake with upturned nose; may spread its head and neck or play dead when disturbed.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- The hognose snake, also known as the puff adder, is a harmless North American species that is often mistaken for a venomous snake.
- When threatened, the puff adder will spread its head and neck, making itself appear larger to deter predators.
- Despite its fearsome appearance, the puff adder is a harmless snake that will not bite unless provoked.
- The puff adder's upturned nose is one of its most distinctive features, and is thought to be an adaptation for digging and burrowing.
- If cornered or threatened, the puff adder may resort to playing dead, a behavior known as "thanatosis" or "death feigning".
Synonyms
Hypernyms
Meaning 2
Large African viper that inflates its body when alarmed.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.