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serpentine

adjective

/ˈsəːp(ə)ntʌɪn/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of serpentine

Resembling or having characteristics similar to a snake or serpent.
"The serpentine river wound its way through the valley."

Detailed meaning of serpentine

When applied to physical features or objects, it suggests a winding, twisting, or meandering shape, reminiscent of the sinuous movements of a snake. "Serpentine" can describe natural formations like a serpentine river winding its way through a landscape or the serpentine patterns of a vine climbing a tree. It can also be used figuratively to describe behaviors, paths, or narratives that are intricate, indirect, or devious in nature, akin to the cunning and unpredictable nature often associated with snakes. Overall, "serpentine" conveys the idea of something winding, curving, or resembling a snake in form or behavior.

Example sentences containing serpentine

1. The river followed a serpentine path through the lush jungle.
2. Her dance had a serpentine grace, mimicking a snake's movements.
3. The mountain road twisted in serpentine curves, challenging drivers.
4. The dragon's scales had a shimmering, serpentine quality.
5. The necklace was adorned with a serpentine pendant.
6. The artist painted a serpentine river winding through the landscape.

History and etymology of serpentine

The term 'serpentine' draws its etymological roots from the Latin word 'serpentinus,' which is an adjective derived from 'serpens,' meaning 'snake' or 'serpent.' In essence, when we describe something as 'serpentine,' we evoke the imagery and characteristics associated with snakes or serpents. This word's etymology connects the idea of sinuous, winding, or twisting movements often observed in snakes to objects or entities exhibiting similar qualities, thus conveying the notion of a sinuous or winding nature.

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Further usage examples of serpentine

1. The labyrinth's serpentine design left explorers feeling lost.
2. The vine crawled along the wall in a serpentine fashion.
3. The yoga instructor guided us through serpentine poses.
4. The rock formation had a serpentine shape, resembling a snake.
5. Her hair flowed in serpentine waves down her back.
6. The coral reef was home to serpentine sea creatures.
7. The road led us through a serpentine canyon with towering walls.
8. The ancient staff had a serpentine head carved with intricate details.
9. The car's exhaust emitted a serpentine plume of smoke.
10. The river's serpentine bends made for challenging kayaking.
11. The serpentine patterns on the wallpaper were mesmerizing.
12. The cat's serpentine gaze locked onto its prey.
13. The serpent's movements were fluid and serpentine.
14. The roller coaster twisted in serpentine loops, thrilling riders.
15. The hiker followed a serpentine trail up the mountain.
16. The car navigated the serpentine road with ease.
17. The serpentines on the fabric added a unique texture to the dress.
18. The thief made a serpentine escape through the maze-like alleys.
19. The serpentines of smoke rising from the fire filled the air with a smoky scent.
20. The snake's serpentine movements were mesmerizing.
21. The serpentine belt in the engine needed to be replaced.
22. The dancer's serpentine grace impressed the judges.
23. The garden's serpentine path led visitors through the different areas.
24. The artist created a serpentine sculpture that twisted and turned.
25. The detective followed the serpentine trail of clues to solve the case.