Aspis

/ˈæspɪs/ noun

Definition

A venomous snake found in Africa and the Mediterranean region, also called the asp or Egyptian cobra, known for its deadly bite.

Etymology

From Greek 'aspis' (shield), likely named for the snake's flat, hood-like head that resembles a shield. The word traveled through Latin and Greek, and is the origin of the English word 'asp.'

Kelly Says

The 'aspis' gave its name to the asp snake, which was so feared in ancient Egypt that it became sacred and deadly—Cleopatra famously used an asp to end her life rather than surrender to Rome, cementing its place in history.

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