snake in the grass
snake in the grass (metaphor)
/sneɪk ɪn ðə ɡræs/
Meaning
- A person who appears harmless but is secretly dishonest or unfaithful.
- Someone who poses as an ally but harbors harmful intentions, making them an unrecognizable enemy or danger.
- A person who appears friendly or trustworthy but is secretly deceitful or treacherous.
- An individual who cannot be relied upon due to their hidden dishonesty or betrayal.
Example Sentences
- Emily trusted Jake, but he turned out to be a snake in the grass, spreading rumors behind her back.
- The company’s new partner seemed supportive, but he was a snake in the grass with his own hidden agenda.
- They welcomed the politician with open arms, not realizing he was a snake in the grass seeking personal gain.
- Mark pretended to be my friend, but he was a snake in the grass, stealing my ideas for his own promotion.
- In the world of business, you must be cautious—there’s always a snake in the grass waiting to deceive you.
Origin and History
Latin Roots and Virgil’s Influence
The expression originates from the Latin proverb “latet anguis in herba,” which translates to “a snake hides in the grass.” This imagery was popularized by the Roman poet Virgil in his work “Eclogues,” written around 37 B.C. In this pastoral poem, Virgil warns:
“Ye who cull flowers and low-growing strawberries, away from here, lads; a chill snake lurks in the grass.”
This metaphor served as a caution against unseen dangers lurking beneath pleasant appearances.
Introduction into the English Language
The metaphor made its way into English literature by the early 17th century. One of the earliest recorded uses is found in William Barksted’s 1611 poem “Hiren,” where he writes:
“O could this diuell my soule so transforme, That I must eate that snake in him did lurke.”
This usage reflects the metaphor’s association with concealed malevolence.
Proliferation in English Literature
The phrase gained further traction in the 17th century. In 1659, Sir Arthur Haslerig used it in a political context, stating, “Consider what a snake lies under this fair Declaration.” By 1696, the idiom was firmly established, as evidenced by Charles Leslie’s book titled “The Snake in the Grass; or, Satan Transform’d into an Angel of Light,” which critiques the perceived deceitfulness of certain religious groups.
Modern Usage and Cultural Impact
Today, “snake in the grass” is a common idiom describing someone who appears friendly or trustworthy but harbors deceitful intentions. Its enduring usage underscores the timeless nature of the warning against hidden threats. The phrase has permeated various aspects of culture, including literature, music, and everyday conversation, symbolizing betrayal and caution against unseen dangers.
Synonyms
- wolf in sheep’s clothing
- backstabber
- two-faced person
- judas
- double-crosser
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