Search Dictionary
Definition of buttermilk racer
buttermilk racer
Plural:buttermilk racers
buttermilk racer Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
9
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
American A fast-moving, non-venomous snake native to the southern United States (particularly Texas and Louisiana), scientifically classified as a subspecies of the Eastern racer (Coluber constrictor anthicus), characterized by its distinctive black or blue-black scales intensely mottled with white or pale yellow flecks.
Example
"During our herpetology field trip in East Texas, we were fortunate enough to spot a buttermilk racer darting rapidly through the tall prairie grass."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
The name derives from the snake's distinctive speckled appearance, which resembles the flecks of butter in traditional buttermilk, combined with 'racer', referring to the snake's agility and speed.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Buttermilk racer. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/buttermilk racer