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Definition of boomslang
boomslang
/ˈboʊmˌslæŋ/
boom · slang
Plural:boomslangs
boomslang Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
9
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
A highly venomous, rear-fanged arboreal snake native to sub-Saharan Africa, characterized by its exceptionally large eyes, slender body, and potent hemotoxic venom that prevents blood clotting.
Example
"The field biologist carefully observed the green boomslang camouflaged in the acacia tree, fully aware that a single bite required immediate administration of specialized antivenom."
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed into English in the early 19th century from Afrikaans 'boomslang', literally meaning 'tree snake', derived from the Dutch words 'boom' (tree) and 'slang' (snake).
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.
180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Boomslang. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 18, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/boomslang