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Definition of spitting cobra

spitting cobra

Plural:spitting cobras
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spitting cobra Lexical Profile

• noun

1

Any of several venomous elapid snakes, primarily native to Africa and Asia, capable of projecting venom from their fangs over a distance to blind or deter predators.

Example

"The herpetologist always wore a protective face shield while handling the spitting cobra to prevent venom from reaching his eyes."

Word Origin & Etymology

Named for its unique defensive adaptation of projecting or 'spitting' venom through specialized forward-facing holes in its fangs. 'Cobra' derives from the Portuguese 'cobra de capelo', meaning 'snake with a hood'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Spitting cobra. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 15, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/spitting cobra
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