Rattlesnakes

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A type of venomous snake known for its distinctive rattle, which produces a warning sound when threatened
2. A species of snake characterized by a segmented, hollow tail that vibrates to create a rattling noise as a defense mechanism
3. A group of reptiles belonging to the Viperidae family, recognized for their potent venom and the ability to alert predators with a unique sound produced by their tails

Etymology: Rattlesnakes are named for the rattle at the end of the tail, a chain of loose, hardened segments that knock against one another with a dry buzz. The name is a compound of "rattle" and "snake." "Rattle" comes from Middle English "ratelen," an imitative verb for a quick clattering sound, and "snake" from Old English "snaca." The plural simply adds an "s" to the compound. Each segment is made of keratin, the same protein as human fingernails. A new segment forms at each shed, but older ones can break off, so counting them does not reliably reveal a snake's age.