Definition

A type of venomous snake found in the Americas, known for the rattling sound it makes with its tail.

Example

We saw a rattlesnake sunbathing on the rock during our hike.

Conversation

Did you hear about the rattlesnake that was spotted near the park?

No way! That's kind of scary, right?

Yeah, I wouldn't want to come across a rattlesnake on a hike.

Definitely! We should stick to the well-traveled paths.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rattlesnake → The word is formed from "rattle" (from Middle English *ratlen*, meaning to make a rapid succession of short, sharp sounds) and "snake" (from Old English *snaca*, meaning a serpent or snake). The term "rattlesnake" refers to a type of snake known for the distinctive rattling sound it makes with its tail.

Memory Tip

Think of the sound of a 'rattle' that this snake makes, combined with the word for 'snake' — that's how you remember that a rattlesnake is a snake that rattles.

Visually Confused Words