python

noun

py·​thon ˈpī-ˌthän 

-thən

: any of various large constricting snakes

especially : any of the large oviparous snakes (subfamily Pythoninae of the family Boidae) of Africa, Asia, Australia, and adjacent islands that include some of the largest existing snakes

Illustration of python

Examples of python in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Removing the eggs prevents dozens of Burmese python hatchlings from entering the Everglades and eating their way up the food chain. — Ashley Miznazi, Miami Herald, 17 July 2026

From some giant prehistoric sloths that fell into a sinkhole 500,000 years ago to extinct elephants to today’s massive invasive pythons, Florida has always been a biological playground. — Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 15 July 2026

Of muscles and molecules Another line of investigation that these researchers are pursuing is related to the python's apparent ability to resist muscle atrophy. — Ari Daniel, NPR, 13 July 2026

Wildlife experts have not been able to estimate how many Burmese pythons exist in Florida due to low detectability, according to the FWC. — Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 11 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin, monstrous serpent killed by Apollo, from Greek Pythōn, from Pythō Delphi

First Known Use

circa 1825, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

python

noun

py·​thon ˈpī-ˌthän 

-thən

: any of various large nonpoisonous snakes especially of Africa, Asia, and Australia that squeeze and suffocate their prey and include some of the largest snakes living at the present time

Etymology

named for Python, a monstrous serpent in Greek Legend

Word Origin

Python in Greek legend, was the name of a monstrous serpent that lived in the caves of Mt. Parnassus near the town of Delphi. This serpent attacked the mother of the god Apollo. Zeus, fortunately, came to her aid and removed her to a place of safety. Later, Apollo sought revenge for the attack. With bow and arrow he hunted the dreaded Python. After struggling with and finally slaying the serpent, Apollo buried it in the temple at Delphi. To celebrate this victory a festival of games was held, including athletic and musical contests and a dramatic performance of Apollo's slaying of Python. These games continued to be held every four years until the 4th century a.d. They were called the Pythian games and ranked second to the Olympic games in popularity. Its was not until the 19th century that the word python was used for a large snake that crushes its prey.