Definition

Proper noun A taxonomic family within the order Squamata. It comprises a very large group of predominantly nonvenomous snakes, representing about two-thirds of all known living snake species.

Usage Notes

• "Family Colubridae" is a formal, scientific term used in zoology, herpetology, and taxonomy. It is always capitalized.
• Members of this family are commonly referred to as colubrids.
• While the vast majority are harmless, a few colubrid species possess rear fangs and mild venom, though they are not considered medically significant to humans.

Examples of Usage

• Proper noun:
  • The garter snake, a common garden visitor, belongs to the family Colubridae.
  • Herpetologists study the evolutionary relationships within the family Colubridae.
  • With over 1,700 species, the family Colubridae is the largest snake family.

Advanced Usage

• In Taxonomic Hierarchy: The term is used to specify a precise biological classification.
  • The rat snake is classified as follows: Kingdom Animalia, Phylum Chordata, Class Reptilia, Order Squamata, Family Colubridae, Genus Pantherophis.
• Informal Short Form: In scientific and enthusiast circles, the adjectival form "colubrid" is often used conversationally.
  • "Most of the snakes in this exhibit are colubrids."

Variants and Related Words

• Colubrid (noun): Any snake belonging to the family Colubridae.
  • Kingsnakes and corn snakes are popular colubrids in the pet trade.
• Colubrid (adjective): Of or relating to the family Colubridae.
  • The colubrid skull structure is distinct from that of vipers.

Synonyms

• Colubrid snakes (common descriptive synonym)
• Typical snakes (informal, broad grouping)

Related Terms (Taxonomic Context)

• Subfamily: A major subdivision within a family (e.g., Subfamily Colubrinae, Natricinae).
• Genus: A group of closely related species within a family (e.g., Genus [garter snakes] within Colubridae).
• Viperidae: The taxonomic family containing vipers.
• Elapidae: The taxonomic family containing cobras, coral snakes, and mambas.

Noun

1. nonvenomous snakes; about two-thirds of all living species