Definition

Noun: * A venomous snake species: Vipera aspis is the scientific name for a specific species of venomous viper. It is commonly known as the European asp or asp viper. It is native to southwestern Europe.

Usage Notes

• This term is a proper noun referring to a specific biological species. It is always written in italics () in scientific and formal contexts.
• The common names "European asp" or "asp viper" are used in general language.
• It is primarily used in zoological, herpetological (study of reptiles), and medical (related to venom) contexts.

Examples

• Scientific Context:
  • The study focused on the venom composition of Vipera aspis.
  • Hikers in the region were warned about the presence of Vipera aspis.
• General Context (using common name):
  • The European asp is found in France and Italy.
  • An asp viper bite requires immediate medical attention.

Advanced Usage

• Taxonomic Classification: In biology, belongs to the family Viperidae. The genus is and the species is .

Variants and Related Words

• European asp (n): The most common English name for this snake.
• Asp viper (n): Another common English name.
• Viper (n): The general term for snakes of the family Viperidae, which includes .
• Adder (n): A common name for other viper species (e.g., the common European adder is ). The reference note highlights that is similar to but smaller than an adder.

Synonyms

• European asp
• Asp viper

Different Meanings

• Asp (historical/literary): In historical and literary contexts, "asp" often refers to the Egyptian cobra (), famously associated with the death of Cleopatra. This is a different snake from .

Noun

1. of southern Europe; similar to but smaller than the adder