Anguis

/ˈæŋɡwɪs/ noun

Definition

The Latin word for snake, used in scientific and classical contexts to refer to snakes or snake-like creatures.

Etymology

From Latin 'anguis,' possibly related to Proto-Indo-European roots meaning 'to bend' or 'narrow,' reflecting the snake's winding, sinuous shape. This root word spawned dozens of English words.

Kelly Says

Anguis is the root of an entire constellation of English words—from anguish to angular—because Romans saw the snake as the ultimate symbol of winding and twisting motion! One Latin word created a whole family of related concepts.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.