1

What is the apt word to be used when a snake has its head looking straight towards us and shows its tongue outside vociferously, probably when it is about to bite?

As user @J.R. suggested "mesmerizes" seems to be somewhat near. But I need something more than that, especially when like the snake is in a attempting position to bite someone.

Improve this question
6
  • 8
    Run...........!
    – Edwin Ashworth
    Jan 21, 2013 at 11:23
  • 3
    I think you should provide a litte more context by editing your question. For a cobra, I believe that's called a threatening position. But there are also instances in literature where a snake mesmerizes its prey, so such a snake could be undulating as well. This depends on if we are watching a snake charmer, or if we are in danger of getting bit.
    – J.R.
    Jan 21, 2013 at 11:35
  • 3
    Possibly reared.
    – tylerharms
    Jan 21, 2013 at 12:10
  • 3
    @Lucky: notice I said "by editing your question." A comment is not an edit; it forces everyone else to read through this discussion to get a clarification you probably should have provided in the first place.
    – J.R.
    Jan 21, 2013 at 12:15
  • 1
    Most snakes must be coiled to a degree in order to strike.
    – Hot Licks
    Dec 29, 2015 at 18:44

3 Answers 3

Reset to default
4

I believe the word you're looking for is hooded.

Improve this answer
2
  • 1
    Not all snakes are hooded, it is specific to cobras.
    – Sayan
    Jan 22, 2013 at 10:26
  • You're right. Though I believe the original poster has a picture in mind of a hooded snake. So it seems.
    – Sathyaish
    Jan 22, 2013 at 10:36
2

There is a phrase which suits the mentioned scenario: "ready to strike". The complete phrase(literary) goes like this

......coiled and ready to strike.

Improve this answer
1

I would suggest rear up:

The snake reared up, ready to strike.

Based on: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/reared

7. (of a person) to start up in angry excitement, hot resentment, or the like (usually followed by up).

Improve this answer
2
  • Thanks anyway but it was already suggested by tylerharms in his comments. :) Also the (of a person) makes me think its only for people and not animals. Correct me if I'm wrong.
    – Lucky
    Dec 31, 2015 at 16:52
  • I missed it in the comments. "Reared up" was my first thought and I've only read/heard it used for animals; see 6. to rise on the hind legs, as a horse or other animal. Snakes are legless, but it's the same movement.
    – StuperUser
    Dec 31, 2015 at 17:41

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.