Pronunciation: [kˈə͡ʊt͡ʃ wˈɪp] (IPA) 
The word "coach whip" is spelled /koʊtʃ wɪp/. The first syllable is pronounced as "koʊtʃ" with a long "o" sound and a "ch" sound. The second syllable is pronounced as "wɪp" with a short "i" sound and a "p" sound. This type of whip originated in the United States during the 1800s and was used by stagecoach drivers to manage their horses. The term "coach whip" is still used today to refer to a long, flexible whip.
A coach whip, also commonly known as a coachwhip snake, is a species of non-venomous snake belonging to the Colubridae family. It is mainly found in the southern regions of the United States, particularly in the southwestern states including Texas, Oklahoma, Arizona, and New Mexico.
The coach whip is a medium to large-sized snake with adults ranging from four to over eight feet in length, making it one of the longest snakes in North America. It possesses a slender body and a slightly flattened head, with a unique elongated and tapering tail that resembles a braided whip, hence its name.
This snake is distinctive in appearance, characterized by its smooth scales, which are usually black, dark brown, or olive-green in color, with lighter ventral scales. It is known for its exceptional agility and great speed, allowing it to swiftly escape and maneuver through its habitat in open areas such as grasslands, deserts, and scrublands.
Despite its intimidating appearance, the coachwhip snake is not venomous or harmful to humans. Instead, it primarily preys on various small animals, including insects, lizards, rodents, and birds. When threatened or alarmed, the coach whip will react defensively by inflating its body, hissing, vibrating its tail rapidly, and striking to deter potential predators.
Due to its impressive speed, slender physique, and evasive behavior, the coach whip has garnered interest from reptile enthusiasts and herpetologists alike. Its unique characteristics and prominence in certain regions have also resulted in it becoming a symbol of regional wildlife.
The word "coach whip" originates from the combination of two separate words: "coach" and "whip".
The word "coach" has its roots in the Latin word "carrus", which means "wagon" or "vehicle". It entered Old English as "coche" and eventually transformed into "coach" during the 16th century. Originally, "coach" referred specifically to a type of horse-drawn carriage used for transportation.
The word "whip" comes from the Old English word "hwip", which means "an instrument for striking". It stems from the Proto-Germanic word "hwippaz" and is related to the Old Norse word "vippa" and Middle Low German word "wap".
When combined, "coach whip" refers to a long, flexible whip typically used by stagecoach drivers to control the horses pulling the coach. The name describes both the purpose and the instrument itself.
