cottonmouth

noun

cot·​ton·​mouth ˈkä-tᵊn-ˌmau̇th 

: water moccasin

Examples of cottonmouth in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For example, Gros says copperheads are widespread through much of the eastern South, while cottonmouths are found primarily in the Southeast, often around water. — Bianca Lambert, Southern Living, 24 Sep. 2026

The copperhead, timber rattlesnake, western pygmy rattlesnake and western cottonmouth live mostly in the eastern area of the state, some traveling closer to central Oklahoma. — Isa Almeida, Oklahoman, 21 Sep. 2026

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

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