Definition

Proper noun 1. A constellation: Serpens is a constellation in the northern celestial hemisphere. It is unique for being the only constellation divided into two non-contiguous parts: Serpens Caput (the Serpent's Head) and Serpens Cauda (the Serpent's Tail). These parts are separated by the constellation Ophiuchus, the Serpent Bearer.

Usage

• Serpens is always capitalized as it is a proper noun, the name of a specific constellation.
• It is typically used in an astronomical context.

Examples

• "The constellation Serpens is depicted as a snake held by the figure of Ophiuchus."
• "Astronomers studied a star-forming region located in Serpens Cauda."
• "Finding Serpens in the night sky can be challenging because its stars are not very bright."

Advanced Usage

• Serpens Caput: This Latin term means "the Serpent's Head" and refers to the western section of the constellation.
• Serpens Cauda: This Latin term means "the Serpent's Tail" and refers to the eastern section of the constellation.
• The phrase "in Serpens" is used to indicate the location of a celestial object within the boundaries of this constellation.

Variants and Related Words

• Serpentine (adjective): Having a winding, twisting shape like a snake. (e.g., "The river took a serpentine path through the valley.") This is related in meaning but is a distinct English word, not a variant of the proper noun "Serpens."

Synonyms

• The Serpent: This is the English translation and common name for the constellation.

Notes

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs associated with the astronomical term Serpens. Its usage is confined to scientific and descriptive contexts in astronomy and mythology.

Noun

1. a constellation in the equatorial region of the northern hemisphere near Ophiuchus and Corona Borealis