Aesculapius' snake

noun

variants or Aesculapian snake

: a harmless European snake (Coluber, or Elaphe, longissimus) believed to have been held sacred to Aesculapius by the Romans

Word History

Etymology

from Aesculapius, Greco-Roman god of medicine

First Known Use

1905, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now