garter snake

American  

noun

1. any of numerous harmless snakes of the genus Thamnophis, common in North and Central America, ranging in size from 14 to 30 inches (36 to 76 centimeters) and typically having three longitudinal stripes on the back.

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garter snake British  

noun

1. any nonvenomous North American colubrid snake of the genus Thamnophis, typically marked with longitudinal stripes

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Etymology

Origin of garter snake

An Americanism dating back to 1760–70

Example Sentences

Official snake: The giant garter snake is recognized as the official snake of California.

From Los Angeles Times

When mice invaded his house, he didn’t poison them but enlisted the help of a garter snake he found outside.

From The Wall Street Journal

The question for the giant garter snake’s future lies in whether it was saved in time.

From Los Angeles Times

The Sierra garter snake told us this is not the case.

From Los Angeles Times

For the first time, researchers — employing an innovative twist on the mirror test — have found evidence that garter snakes can distinguish themselves from others, using not sight but scent.

From New York Times