Definition

1. Noun:
   • A performer who uses movements and music to control snakes: A person, typically part of a street or stage show, who appears to hypnotize or command venomous snakes, usually cobras, by playing a wind instrument such as a pungi or flute.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The snake charmer sat cross-legged before the basket, playing his flute as the cobra emerged.
  • Tourists gathered in the market square to watch the snake charmer perform his dangerous act.

Advanced Usage

• Cultural Context: The term often evokes imagery of traditional street performances in parts of South Asia and the Middle East. It can be used metaphorically to describe someone who skillfully manages or manipulates a dangerous or difficult situation or person.
  • The CEO was a real snake charmer, able to calm the furious investors with just a few words.

Variants and Related Words

• Snake charming (n): The practice or performance of a snake charmer.
  • Snake charming is a controversial tradition due to animal welfare concerns.

Synonyms

• Animal handler: A person who manages and controls animals, though this is a broader term.
• Street performer: A person who entertains in public places, which can include snake charmers.

Related Idioms

• To charm a snake: While not a fixed idiom, the phrase can be used literally or figuratively to mean to calm or control a dangerous entity.
  • Diplomats tried to charm the snake, negotiating with the hostile regime.

Noun

1. a performer who uses movements and music to control snakes