spitting cobra

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Explanation of "Spitting Cobra"

Definition:
A "spitting cobra" is a type of snake found mainly in Africa. It is known for its ability to spit venom at its enemies instead of biting them. This venom can be dangerous and may cause blindness if it gets into someone's eyes.

Usage Instructions:

• The term "spitting cobra" is a noun, so it’s used to name this specific kind of snake.
• You can use it in sentences when talking about snakes, wildlife, or animal behavior.

Example Sentence:

• "When we visited the zoo, we saw a spitting cobra in its enclosure, and the guide explained how it uses its venom to protect itself."

Advanced Usage:

In a more advanced context, you might discuss the spitting cobra in terms of its behavior or ecological role: - "The spitting cobra exhibits fascinating defensive behaviors, adapting to its environment by using venom as a method of deterrence rather than relying solely on physical attacks."

Word Variants:

• The word "cobra" on its own refers to a family of snakes that includes many species, not just the spitting cobra.
• "Spitting" is a verb form that describes the action of expelling something forcefully from the mouth.

Different Meanings:

• Spit (verb): To forcefully eject saliva or other substances from the mouth, which is how the spitting cobra gets its name.
• Cobra (noun): Refers to several species of venomous snakes characterized by their hood and ability to raise their heads.

Synonyms:

While there are no direct synonyms for "spitting cobra," you can refer to it in broader terms: - "Venomous snake" refers to any snake that can inject venom. - "African cobra" refers to cobras found in Africa, which includes the spitting cobra.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that include "spitting cobra," but you might encounter phrases like "spitting venom" in a metaphorical sense, meaning to speak harshly or angrily.

Summary:

The term "spitting cobra" is used to describe a unique snake known for its ability to spit venom.

Academic

Noun

1. aggressive cobra widely distributed in Africa; rarely bites but spits venom that may cause blindness

Synonyms

• black-necked cobra
• Naja nigricollis