python: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
MediumBoth technical and general use
Quick answer
What does “python” mean?
A large, non-venomous snake that kills its prey by coiling around it and constricting.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A large, non-venomous snake that kills its prey by coiling around it and constricting.
A high-level programming language known for its clear syntax and readability; also refers to the comedy troupe Monty Python, often used attributively.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. The cultural reference to 'Monty Python' is more immediately recognised in British English, but well-known in American English too.
Connotations
Zoological sense is neutral; programming sense is technical, modern; 'Monty Python' reference connotes surreal, absurdist humour.
Frequency
The zoological sense is more frequent in general discourse; the programming sense dominates in IT contexts; the cultural reference is common in discussions of comedy.
Grammar
How to Use “python” in a Sentence
[to code/write/learn] in Python[to install/run/update] Pythona python [coils/strikes/squeezes]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “python” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He has a very Python-esque sense of humour.
- The Python community in London is vibrant.
American English
- The show had a real Python vibe.
- It was a Python script that automated the task.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
'The team is looking for a developer proficient in Python for the data analysis project.'
Academic
'The study used Python scripts to simulate the neural network model.'
Everyday
'We saw a massive python at the zoo today.' or 'That sketch was pure Monty Python.'
Technical
'Ensure your virtual environment is running Python 3.11 or later.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “python”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “python”
- Mispronouncing it as 'Pie-thon' (American) in British contexts where 'Pye-thon' is expected, though both are acceptable.
- Confusing 'Python' (language) with 'Pythons' (slang for biceps).
- Using a lowercase 'p' for the programming language (it is a proper noun).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, when referring to the programming language or the comedy group, it is a proper noun and must be capitalised. When referring to the snake, it is typically not capitalised unless at the start of a sentence.
Yes, slightly. British English tends towards /ˈpʌɪθ(ə)n/ ('Pye-thon'), while American English is /ˈpaɪθɑːn/ ('Pie-thawn'). Both are widely understood.
No, 'python' is not standardly used as a verb in any of its primary meanings.
The programming language is named after the British comedy troupe Monty Python, not directly after the snake. The creator, Guido van Rossum, was a fan of the show and wanted a short, unique, and slightly mysterious name.
A large, non-venomous snake that kills its prey by coiling around it and constricting.
Python is usually both technical and general use in register.
Python: in British English it is pronounced /ˈpʌɪθ(ə)n/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈpaɪθɑːn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “To have a Monty Python moment”
- “A Python-esque sense of humour”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a PYTHON snake WRAPPING around its prey, just like Python code can WRAP complex operations in simple functions.
Conceptual Metaphor
TOOL/INSTRUMENT (for programming language); DANGEROUS CONSTRICTOR (for snake); SOURCE OF ABSURDITY (for comedy).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would the word 'python' most likely refer to a comedy style?