How Do You Spell ASP?

Pronunciation: [ˈasp] (IPA)

Asp is a four-letter word that is commonly misspelled due to its close resemblance to the word "aspire". Its pronunciation is /æsp/, with a short "a" sound followed by "s" and "p" sounds. Spelling this word can be tricky since it is pronounced the same way as "aspire", a word with a completely different meaning. In the context of zoology, an asp is a venomous snake, while in the context of ancient Egyptian mythology, it is a symbol of royalty and divine authority.

ASP Meaning and Definition

  1. Asp is a noun that describes a small venomous snake commonly found in Egypt and surrounding regions. Its scientific name is Vipera aspis, and it belongs to the family Viperidae. The asp snake typically reaches lengths of about 50-70 centimeters and is known for its slender body and distinctive triangular-shaped head. It is usually pale grey or brown in color, with dark spots or stripes along its back. The asp snake is highly venomous, and its bite can be fatal to humans.

    In ancient times, the asp snake gained significance due to its association with Cleopatra, the last queen of Egypt. According to historical accounts, Cleopatra committed suicide by allowing an asp snake to bite her. This incident has contributed to the asp's reputation of being poisonous and even lethal.

    The term "asp" is also used metaphorically to describe someone who is treacherous or untrustworthy. In this sense, the word denotes a person who is cunning or deceitful, capable of causing harm or trouble through their actions or words. Thus, "asp" can refer to both a literal venomous snake and a metaphorical representation of a deceitful individual.

  2. • A small serpent whose bite is fatal.
    • A tree of the poplar kind whose leaves quiver or shake at the slightest breath of air.
    • Pert. to an aspen.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for ASP *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for ASP

Etymology of ASP

The word "asp" originates from Latin "aspis", which was derived from Greek "aspis" meaning "asp" or "shield". The Greek term was used to refer to a small hooded snake, specifically the Egyptian cobra. Over time, the word evolved in various languages, including Old English "æspe" and Middle English "asp", eventually becoming the term we use today to describe a venomous snake species.

Similar spelling words for ASP

Plural form of ASP is ASPS

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