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Glite Dictionary
Coluber constrictor

Coluber constrictor

9.1
A large fast snake with no venom that lives in the eastern United States
  • noun
  • /ˈkoʊlʊbər kənˈstrɪktər/
  • Specialized
translation icon : Coluber constrictor
  • Unlike venomous snakes, the Coluber constrictor subdues its food by quickly overpowering it.

Examples

  • Wildlife enthusiasts often spot the Coluber constrictor basking in the sun on rocks or logs.

  • The Coluber constrictor can move rapidly through fields and forests to hunt its prey.

  • The Coluber constrictor is often seen in gardens.

  • Many people mistake the Coluber constrictor for a venomous snake.

  • The Coluber constrictor is known for its agility as it swiftly glides through the grass in search of food.

  • A Coluber constrictor can be identified by its sleek body and dark coloration, making it an impressive sight in its natural habitat.

  • When encountering a Coluber constrictor, you may notice it quickly disappears into the underbrush to avoid detection.

Synonyms

racer
vsColuber constrictor
  • US
1 8.2

A thin fast snake found in North America that is not venomous

refers specifically to the single species native to the eastern United States
black racer
vsColuber constrictor
  • US
7.9

A fast black snake that is not venomous and lives in the eastern United States

is the formal scientific name for that exact species

Surface Forms

Coluber constrictor singular
Coluber constrictors plural

Morphology

Coluber + constrictor

This binomial is compositional and taxonomic: 'Coluber' names the genus (a type of racer snake) and 'constrictor' describes a snake that constricts its prey, so together they denote a particular species of non-venomous snake. The name is literal rather than idiomatic, so a learner who knows the constituent meanings can infer the MWE's referent.

Etymology

Coluber constrictor may come from old Latin words: coluber meaning 'snake' and constrictor meaning 'one who squeezes'. One popular story says people used this name after seeing a slim, fast snake grab and hold its prey, so the name gives the image of a quick snake that overpowers its food and helps you remember this non-venomous species.