spitting cobra: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
RareTechnical/Zoological, Informal (metaphor)
Quick answer
What does “spitting cobra” mean?
A cobra with the specialized ability to eject venom from its fangs towards a target's eyes, typically as a defensive mechanism.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A cobra with the specialized ability to eject venom from its fangs towards a target's eyes, typically as a defensive mechanism.
In broader usage, can refer metaphorically to a person who expresses sharp, venomous, or damaging criticism at a distance.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in zoological reference. Potential minor preference for 'spitting cobra' over the occasional US use of the specific species name (e.g., 'Mozambique spitting cobra').
Connotations
Identical in zoological sense. The metaphorical use is rare in both.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both variants, encountered mainly in wildlife contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “spitting cobra” in a Sentence
[The/An/A] spitting cobra [verb e.g., *spat*, *lurked*, *emerged*].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “spitting cobra” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The spitting-cobra exhibit was the zoo's most popular.
- He has a spitting-cobra temperament.
American English
- The spitting cobra exhibit was the zoo's most popular.
- He has a spitting cobra temperament.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Almost never used; only in rare metaphorical criticism.
Academic
Used in zoology, herpetology, and biology texts describing species and defence mechanisms.
Everyday
Used in travel warnings, wildlife documentaries, and nature discussions.
Technical
Used in herpetological classification, venom research, and antivenom studies.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “spitting cobra”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “spitting cobra”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “spitting cobra”
- Confusing 'spitting cobra' with all cobras (only some species spit).
- Using 'spitting' as a continuous verb in the name (e.g., 'The cobra is spitting' vs. 'It is a spitting cobra').
- Hyphenation: 'spitting cobra' is typically not hyphenated in modern usage.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, their venom is potent and can be fatal if it enters the bloodstream via a bite. The spitting mechanism is primarily for defence and can cause blindness and severe pain.
They can accurately spit venom up to 2-3 metres (6.5-10 feet), aiming for the eyes.
No. 'Spitting cobra' refers specifically to certain species within the genus Naja that have adapted fangs for ejecting venom. Many cobra species cannot spit.
Immediately and thoroughly rinse the eyes with copious amounts of clean water (or any neutral fluid) for at least 15-20 minutes and seek urgent medical attention to prevent permanent damage.
A cobra with the specialized ability to eject venom from its fangs towards a target's eyes, typically as a defensive mechanism.
Spitting cobra is usually technical/zoological, informal (metaphor) in register.
Spitting cobra: in British English it is pronounced /ˈspɪt.ɪŋ ˈkəʊ.brə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈspɪt̬.ɪŋ ˈkoʊ.brə/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(metaphor) 'He was a spitting cobra in the boardroom, targeting weaknesses from across the table.'”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'SPITting' venom at your EYES, not biting—like a COBRA with a ranged attack.
Conceptual Metaphor
CRITICISM IS VENOM; DISTANT ATTACK IS SPITTING.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a spitting cobra's 'spitting' behaviour?