cottonmouth

noun

cot·​ton·​mouth ˈkä-tᵊn-ˌmau̇th 

: water moccasin

Examples of cottonmouth in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Note that all pit vipers — cottonmouths, copperheads, and rattlesnakes — require the same antivenin, and most hospitals have a good supply on hand. — Brandi D. Addison, USA Today, 2 Sep. 2026

Davis assured that cottonmouths, though venomous, are not typically aggressive unless threatened. — Devon Henderson, New York Times, 12 Aug. 2026

For those making weekend trips to Lake of the Ozarks, northern cottonmouths can sometimes be spotted. — Sophie Lindberg, Kansas City Star, 10 June 2026

Other pit vipers include rattlesnakes and cottonmouths. — Charlotte Observer, 8 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

from the white interior of its mouth

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing cottonmouth

• cottonmouth moccasin

Rhymes for cottonmouth

• drouth
• mouth
• routh

Kids Definition

cottonmouth

noun

cot·​ton·​mouth ˈkät-ᵊn-ˌmau̇th 

: water moccasin

Medical Definition

cottonmouth

noun

cot·​ton·​mouth ˈkät-ᵊn-ˌmau̇th 

: water moccasin