rattlesnake

noun

rat·​tle·​snake ˈra-tᵊl-ˌsnāk 

: any of several American pit vipers (genera Crotalus and Sistrurus) that have horny interlocking joints at the end of the tail which make a sharp rattling sound when shaken

Illustration of rattlesnake

Examples of rattlesnake in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In the Southeast, there are several venomous snakes that could potentially cause an injury to a human or pet: three species of rattlesnakes (eastern diamondback, timber, and pygmy), copperhead, cotton mouth (also known as water moccasins), and coral snake, says Maerz. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 1 Aug. 2024

According to small studies, these benefits may include lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, nourishing hair and skin health through antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, and potentially neutralizing rattlesnake venom. —Lauren Manaker Ms, Rdn, Health, 28 July 2024

Difficulty breathing: In severe cases, rattlesnake envenomation can cause respiratory distress, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. —Annie Goodykoontz, The Arizona Republic, 19 July 2024

Unlike other reptiles, rattlesnake pups are born live, rather than hatching from eggs. —Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 18 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1624, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing rattlesnake

• diamondback rattlesnake
• rattlesnake master
• rattlesnake plantain
• rattlesnake root
• rattlesnake weed
• timber rattlesnake

Kids Definition

rattlesnake

noun

rat·​tle·​snake ˈrat-ᵊl-ˌsnāk 

: any of various poisonous American snakes with a rattle at the end of the tail

Medical Definition

rattlesnake

noun

rat·​tle·​snake ˈrat-ᵊl-ˌsnāk 

: any of the American pit vipers that have a series of horny interlocking joints at the end of the tail which make a sharp rattling sound when vibrated and that comprise the genera Sistrurus and Crotalus see diamondback rattlesnake, tiger rattlesnake, timber rattlesnake