SERPENTINE Meaning and
Definition
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Serpentine is an adjective that is used to describe something resembling or characteristic of a serpent. The term originates from the Latin word "serpentinus," which means "of a snake."
In a literal sense, serpentine refers to the physical features or movements associated with serpents or snakes. This can include their sinuous or winding shape, as well as their slithering or undulating motion. Objects or structures that mimic these characteristics, like curved or twisting paths or roads, are often described as serpentine.
However, serpentine can also be used metaphorically to describe things that possess qualities commonly associated with snakes. For instance, it can refer to a person's cunning or sly nature, highlighting their ability to navigate situations with manipulative skill or deceit. Serpentine can also be used to describe a winding or convoluted route, indicating a complex or intricate process or path.
In the context of geology, serpentine is a type of rock or mineral that exhibits a smooth, often greenish appearance due to its high content of magnesium and iron. These rocks are formed through the metamorphic alteration of ultramafic igneous rocks, typically found in areas of tectonic activity. Serpentine rocks often show a wavy or mottled texture, resembling the scales of a snake, hence the name.
Overall, serpentine encompasses a range of meanings, emphasizing the serpentine-like physical attributes, behavioral characteristics, or symbolic associations that are commonly associated with serpents, both in the natural world and in metaphorical contexts.
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• Resembling a serpent in motion; winding; spiral; twisted.
• A very hard variety of magnesian rock of various colours, usually of an obscure-green colour, often beautifully spotted, like a serpent.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of SERPENTINE
The word "serpentine" can be traced back to the Latin word "serpens" which means "snake". The Latin word "serpentinus" translates to "of a serpent" or "snakelike". This was later borrowed into Old French as "serpentain", and eventually made its way into English as "serpentine". The term is often used to describe things that resemble the winding, twisting movements of a snake, such as serpentine roads or serpentine patterns.
Similar spelling words for SERPENTINE
