Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Serpent”
The biblical word “Serpent” traces back to Hebrew / Greek (נחש (nachash) / ὄφις (ophis)), where it meant “A snake; a reptile creature; a symbol of cunning or deceit”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “A snake; a person who is treacherous or deceitful”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Hebrew/Greek
Hebrew / Greekנחש (nachash) / ὄφις (ophis)A snake; a reptile creature; a symbol of cunning or deceit
Hebrew nachash (H5175) denotes snake or serpent. Greek ophis (G3789) also means snake. Both used symbolically in biblical texts (Genesis 3, Revelation).
Medieval Latin / Church
LatinserpensA snake; symbolic of Satan or demonic deception in Christian theology
Latin serpens (from serpere, 'to creep') developed the metaphorical meaning of Satan through Church exegesis of Genesis 3.
Modern English
EnglishserpentA snake; a person who is treacherous or deceitful
From Latin serpens via Old French serpent. Metaphorical use for treacherous persons preserved from medieval usage.