Definition

Noun 1. A highly venomous snake of southern Africa able to eject or "spit" its venom accurately over a considerable distance (up to seven feet) as a defensive mechanism. This term refers specifically to certain species of cobras (genus Naja) that have evolved this specialized ability.

Usage and Examples

• The guide warned us to keep our distance from any spitting snake we might encounter on the trail.
• Unlike other cobras that primarily bite, a spitting snake can blind a threat from a distance by aiming for the eyes.
• Researchers studied the muscular mechanism that allows the spitting snake to project its venom with such force and accuracy.

Advanced Usage and Notes

• The term "spitting snake" is a descriptive common name, not a formal taxonomic classification. It is primarily used to refer to the "spitting cobra".
• The verb "spit" in this context is used figuratively. The snake does not actually salivate or spit; it forcibly ejects venom through specialized fangs.
• The primary function of this behavior is defensive deterrence rather than hunting.

Variants and Related Words

• Spitting cobra (n.): The more precise and commonly used synonym for "spitting snake." It specifies the snake's family (elapids, genus ).
• Rinkhals (n.): A specific type of spitting snake (or cobra) native to Southern Africa, scientifically known as . It is not a true cobra (genus ) but exhibits similar spitting behavior.

Synonyms

• Spitting cobra
• Venom-spitting snake

Related Phrases and Contexts

• To spit venom: The action performed by the snake. This phrase is also used metaphorically in English to describe someone speaking with extreme malice or anger.
  • The spitting snake can spit venom with remarkable precision.
  • (Metaphorical) During the debate, the politician seemed to spit venom with every accusation.

Noun

1. highly venomous snake of southern Africa able to spit venom up to seven feet