English Reference
noun

python

n.
US /ˈpaɪθɑn/ UK /pˈaɪθən/ python UK spelling pythons

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate Science

    a large snake that kills animals by squeezing them very tightly.

    any of the nonvenomous constricting snakes belonging to the family Pythonidae.

    Simple

    The python at the zoo was over four meters long and very heavy.

    In context

    The reticulated python is known for its immense length and its ability to consume relatively large mammals by constricting their breathing.

    constrictor
  2. 02 B1 Intermediate Computing

    a popular computer language used for writing software and analyzing data.

    a high-level, interpreted programming language known for its readability and versatile standard library.

    Simple

    She decided to learn Python because it is a great language for beginners.

    In context

    Data scientists often prefer Python over other languages due to its extensive ecosystem of libraries for machine learning and statistical analysis.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced British EnglishInformal Theatre

    a member of the famous British comedy group called Monty Python.

    a member of the influential British surreal comedy group Monty Python.

    Simple

    John Cleese is perhaps the most famous Python from the original TV show.

    In context

    The surviving Pythons reunited for a series of live performances that celebrated their legacy in sketch comedy.

  4. 04 C2 Proficiency SlangVulgar

    a rude, slang word for a penis.

    a vulgar slang term for the penis.

    Simple

    He made a crude joke using a slang word for his python.

    In context

    The script was edited for television to remove several vulgar references to the male anatomy, including the word python.


From Ancient Greek Πύθων (Púthōn), from Πῡθώ (Pūthṓ), the early name of Delphi, from πύθω (púthō, “to rot, to decay”). The programming language is named after Monty Python.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Ancient Greek Πύθων
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated