noun Uncommon

cobra

KOHB-ruh

Cobra (noun) means a venomous snake, especially of the genus Naja, known for flaring the skin of its neck into a hood when threatened. Example: “The snake charmer played his flute as the cobra swayed and spread its hood.”

noun

A venomous snake, especially of the genus Naja, known for flaring the skin of its neck into a hood when threatened.

"The snake charmer played his flute as the cobra swayed and spread its hood."

"A king cobra can grow longer than any other venomous snake."

How to use cobra

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA hooded, venomous snake found across Africa and Asia.

Common pairings

a cobra's hood a spitting cobra a king cobra

Word forms

cobras plural, COBRAs plural

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The snake charmer played his flute as the _____ swayed and spread its hood.

Etymology

From Portuguese cobra, ultimately from Latin colubra, "female snake."

Origin: Latin

Frequently asked questions

What does “cobra” mean?

The word “cobra” means a venomous snake, especially of the genus Naja, known for flaring the skin of its neck into a hood when threatened. In plain terms, a hooded, venomous snake found across Africa and Asia.

How do you pronounce “cobra”?

“Cobra” is pronounced KOHB-ruh (/ˈkoʊbɹə/ in IPA).

How do you use “cobra” in a sentence?

Here is “cobra” used in a sentence: “The snake charmer played his flute as the cobra swayed and spread its hood.”

What part of speech is “cobra”?

“Cobra” is a noun.

Where does the word “cobra” come from?

The word “cobra” comes from Latin. From Portuguese cobra, ultimately from Latin colubra, "female snake.".

Is “cobra” a common word?

“Cobra” is an uncommon word in modern English.