puff adder

American  

noun

1. a large, thick-bodied, African viper, Bitis arietans, that inflates its body and hisses when disturbed.

2. a similar viper, B. inornata, native to southern Africa.

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puff adder British  

noun

1. a large venomous African viper, Bitis arietans, that is yellowish-grey with brown markings and inflates its body when alarmed

2. another name for hognose snake

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Etymology

Origin of puff adder

First recorded in 1780–90

Example Sentences

Credit cards made buying stuff easier and safer.

From Forbes • Jul. 13, 2011

Credit cards made buying stuff easier and safer.

From Forbes • Jul. 13, 2011