Definition

1. Noun:
   • A genus of venomous pit vipers: "Ancistrodon" is a former taxonomic genus name for a group of venomous snakes commonly known as copperheads and cottonmouths (water moccasins). These snakes are characterized by heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils.
   • Common name for specific snakes: The term is often used to refer specifically to the copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix), a venomous pit viper found in North America.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The biologist studied the behavior of Ancistrodon in its natural habitat. (The biologist studied the behavior of the copperhead in its natural habitat.)
  • While hiking, we were cautious of Ancistrodon, commonly known as the copperhead. (While hiking, we were cautious of the copperhead snake.)

Advanced Usage

• Taxonomic Note: In modern scientific classification, the genus is largely considered obsolete. The species formerly placed here are now typically classified under the genus or . The word "Ancistrodon" is primarily encountered in historical or specialized texts.
  • The old field guide listed the copperhead under the genus Ancistrodon. (The old field guide listed the copperhead under the genus Ancistrodon.)

Variants and Related Words

• Agkistrodon (n): The current, more widely accepted genus name for snakes including copperheads and cottonmouths.
  • Agkistrodon piscivorus is the scientific name for the cottonmouth.
• Copperhead (n): The common name for .
  • A copperhead's bite requires immediate medical attention.
• Pit viper (n): The family (Viperidae: Crotalinae) to which these snakes belong.
  • Rattlesnakes and Ancistrodon are both pit vipers.

Synonyms

• Copperhead: The most common synonym when referring to .
• Pit viper: A broader categorical synonym describing the type of snake.

Related Phrases / Terms

• Venomous snake: A general descriptive phrase applicable to Ancistrodon.
  • Ancistrodon is a type of venomous snake found in the Americas.
• Heat-sensing pit: A key anatomical feature of these snakes.
  • The Ancistrodon uses its heat-sensing pits to locate prey.

Noun

1. copperheads