Unsnakelike

Part of speech: adjective

Definitions

1. Not resembling or characteristic of a serpent in appearance, behavior, or movement
2. Lacking the qualities or characteristics typically associated with serpents, whether in form, motion, or mannerisms
3. Characterized by a deviation from the usual traits of a snake, including its shape, actions, or patterns of behavior

Etymology: "Unsnakelike" is a plain English formation: the prefix "un-", meaning "not" or "lacking," attached to "snakelike," which itself is "snake" plus the suffix "-like," meaning "resembling or having the qualities of." Together they describe something that does not resemble a serpent, whether in shape, in the way it moves, or in its manner. The word is a negated adjective, so its sense depends entirely on its parts. Because "snakelike" can describe both physical form (a sinuous body) and behavior (sly or treacherous conduct), "unsnakelike" can likewise be used of a creature that is straight-limbed and quick-footed, or of a person who is open and direct rather than sly. The formation follows the pattern of many English words, such as "unbirdlike" or "unhumanlike," where "un-" is attached to a compound adjective built from a noun plus "-like."