víbora
Mexico, everyday
In Mexico "snake" is often víbora, especially for dangerous ones. Serpiente is the standard word and culebra is used for a harmless snake in many places.
Meaning: long legless reptile (noun)
Ways to say it
| Mexican | Note |
|---|---|
| víbora | Mexico, everyday |
| serpiente | neutral |
| culebra | neutral, non venomous |
A rattlesnake is víbora de cascabel, which many Mexicans say rather than serpiente de cascabel. Cuidado con las víboras is a common warning in the countryside.
Which one should you use?
Serpiente is used in books and zoology. Culebra often suggests a smaller or non venomous snake.
When do people say it?
The Mexican coat of arms and flag show an eagle standing on a cactus and eating a snake, based on the founding legend of Tenochtitlan.
Did you know?
- The Aztec god Quetzalcóatl is called the feathered serpent, serpiente emplumada.
Examples in context
- Vi una víbora en el camino.I saw a snake on the road.
- Una serpiente se metió al patio.A snake got into the yard.
- Es una culebra, no pica.It is a harmless snake, it does not bite.
Example conversation
Hiker Daniela and her guide Don Chuy walk a trail in Chiapas.
- DanielaDon Chuy, ¿hay víboras por aquí?Don Chuy, are there snakes around here?
- Don ChuySí, hay que fijarse dónde pisa.Yes, you must watch where you step.
- DanielaEntonces voy detrás de usted.Then I will walk behind you.
