serpent

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Religion Literary

n. a large, snake-like monster from myths, like a dragon or a sea monster.

n. a legendary or mythological creature of snake-like form, such as a sea serpent or a dragon.

“Sailors told terrifying tales of a sea serpent that lived in the deep ocean.”

“Medieval maps often featured illustrations of great serpents in the unexplored corners of the world to warn travellers of unknown dangers.”

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Literary · Formal

n. a person who is dishonest and cannot be trusted.

n. a treacherous, deceitful, or malicious person who hides their true intentions.

“He called his business partner a serpent after he was cheated out of his money.”

“The king realised too late that his closest advisor was a serpent who had been plotting his downfall for years.”

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Music Technical · Archaic

n. an old-fashioned wind instrument made of wood that is shaped like a snake.

n. a bass wind instrument, typically made of wood and leather, with a curved shape resembling a snake.

“The museum has a rare serpent from the 1700s in its music collection.”

“The composer included a part for the serpent to provide a deep, haunting tone to the orchestral arrangement.”