Definition

A mythical creature that looks like a serpent and has a head at both ends of its body, allowing it to move in either direction.

Example

In ancient stories, the amphisbaena was said to be able to bite its own tail.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the amphisbaena?

Yeah, it's that mythical serpent with two heads, right?

Exactly! It's said to move in either direction.

That sounds fascinating; I love learning about mythology!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Amphisbaena is derived from the Greek "amphis" (meaning on both sides) and "bainein" (meaning to go or to walk). The word refers to a mythical creature that has a head at both ends, allowing it to move in either direction.

Memory Tip

Imagine a creature that can 'go' ('bainein') in 'both directions' ('amphis') — that's why amphisbaena describes a two-headed serpent.

Visually Confused Words