First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
1serpentine
adjective ser·pen·tine \ˈsər-pən-ˌtēn, -ˌtīn\
: having many bends and turns
Full Definition of SERPENTINE
1
: of or resembling a serpent (as in form or movement)
2
: subtly wily or tempting
3
a : winding or turning one way and another <a serpentine road> b : having a compound curve whose central curve is convex
— ser·pen·tine·ly adverb
See serpentine defined for English-language learners
See serpentine defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of SERPENTINE
Middle English, from Anglo-French serpentin, from Late Latin serpentinus, from Latin serpent-, serpens
2serpentine
noun
Definition of SERPENTINE
: something that winds sinuously
First Known Use of SERPENTINE
1519
3serpentine
noun ser·pen·tine \-ˌtēn\
Definition of SERPENTINE
: a mineral or rock consisting essentially of a hydrous magnesium silicate usually having a dull green color and often a mottled appearance
Origin of SERPENTINE
Middle English, from Anglo-French serpentin, Medieval Latin serpentina, serpentinum, from Late Latin, feminine & neuter of serpentinus resembling a serpent
First Known Use: 15th century
SERPENTINE[1] Defined for Kids
serpentine
adjective ser·pen·tine \ˈsər-pən-ˌtēn, -ˌtīn\
Definition of SERPENTINE for Kids
: winding or turning one way and another <a serpentine path>
Learn More About SERPENTINE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: serpentine greenPrevious Word in the Dictionary: serpentileAll Words Near: serpentine
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up serpentine? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).