Word
viper
Phoneticsviper
US/ˈvaɪpɝ/
UK/vˈaɪpɐ/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a type of poisonous snake with long teeth. You can also use this word to describe a person who is mean or tries to hurt others secretly.
n. a venomous snake belonging to the family Viperidae, characterised by long, hinged fangs. Figuratively describes a person perceived as treacherous, malicious, or spiteful.
Examples
“The hiker saw a viper hiding in the tall grass.”
“He warned his colleagues that the new manager was a viper who would betray them to get a promotion.”
“The protagonist soon realised that the court was filled with vipers, each waiting for a moment of weakness to strike at his reputation.”
Examples
simple
“The hiker saw a viper hiding in the tall grass.”
contextual
“He warned his colleagues that the new manager was a viper who would betray them to get a promotion.”
complex
“The protagonist soon realised that the court was filled with vipers, each waiting for a moment of weakness to strike at his reputation.”
Usage
When used figuratively for a person, it carries a strong negative connotation of betrayal.
Real-World Examples
“And yes, they really did stage confrontations with 75 venomous pit vipers in the lab, stepping on the head, mid-body, and tail while wearing safety boots, as well as merely stepping near the snakes.” “Venomous snakes such as vipers, on the other hand, were rarely caught," explains Lev.” Idioms
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 6.0114–120
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C2 · Proficiency
- Updated
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