file snake
file snake Lexical Profile
• noun
Any of several non-venomous, strictly aquatic snakes of the family Acrochordidae, native to tropical environments of Southeast Asia and Northern Australia, characterized by loose, baggy skin and strongly keeled, rough scales.
"The Arafura file snake is perfectly adapted to its aquatic habitat, using its remarkably rough skin to grasp slippery fish underwater."
Any non-venomous African snake of the genus Gonionotophis (formerly Mehelya), noted for its triangular body cross-section and prominent dorsal ridge with distinctly shaped scales.
"During the night expedition in sub-Saharan Africa, the herpetologists documented a Cape file snake hunting on the forest floor."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Named for their distinctive, rough, and sharply keeled scales that resemble the coarse texture of a metal file.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.