Definition

Describing a type of animal, especially a snake, that does not produce venom and is therefore not harmful to humans.

Example

Many people prefer to keep nonvenomous snakes as pets because they are safer than venomous ones.

Conversation

Did you know that some snakes are nonvenomous?

Really? I thought all snakes were dangerous.

Nope, there are many that are completely safe to handle, like garter snakes.

That's cool! I’d love to see a nonvenomous snake up close.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonvenomous → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "venomous" (from Latin "venenosus", meaning poisonous). The word "nonvenomous" describes creatures that are not poisonous or do not produce venom.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') being combined with 'poisonous' ('venomous') to remember that 'nonvenomous' means something that is not poisonous.

Visually Confused Words