viperous

viperous

A viperous snake hides among the dry leaves.

Definition

Adjective:
- Resembling or characteristic of a viper: "viperous" describes something that is like a viper, especially in terms of being venomous, treacherous, or spiteful. It is often used figuratively to refer to malicious or harmful behavior, speech, or nature.

Usage Examples
  • (Her malicious and venomous words harmed his self-esteem.)
  • (His treacherous and deceitful methods drove away supporters.)
  • (He spoke in a spiteful, harmful manner.)
Advanced Usage
  • "viperous temper": a disposition that is quick to anger and vengeful, like that of a viper.
    • The king's viperous temper made the court live in constant fear. (His easily provoked, cruel anger created a tense atmosphere.)
  • "viperous brood": a group of people considered treacherous or evil.
    • The spy ring was a viperous brood, feeding on secrets and betraying trust. (They were a collection of deceitful, harmful individuals.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Viper (n): a venomous snake of the family Viperidae; also used figuratively for a treacherous person.
    • The viper struck without warning. (The snake attacked suddenly.)
  • Viperousness (n): the quality of being viperous; malice or venomousness.
    • The viperousness of his attack left everyone stunned. (The extreme malice of his words shocked all.)
  • Viperine (adj): relating to or resembling a viper; often used interchangeably with "viperous."
    • Her viperine glare silenced the room. (Her snake-like, hostile look intimidated everyone.)
Synonyms
  • Venomous: full of malice or spite; capable of injecting venom.
  • Malicious: intending or showing a desire to harm others.
  • Treacherous: guilty of or involving betrayal or deception.
  • Spiteful: showing a desire to hurt, annoy, or offend.
Related Idioms
  • "A viper in one's bosom": a person who shows ingratitude or betrays a benefactor.
    • He trusted his advisor, only to find a viper in his bosom when the advisor plotted against him. (He harbored a treacherous person who later harmed him.)
Phrasal Verbs (none directly applicable)

No phrasal verbs are commonly formed with "viperous"; it is strictly an adjective.