A nest of vipers In english explanation

The meaning, explanation, definition and origin of the idiom/phrase "A nest of vipers", English Idiom Dictionary ( also found in Vietnamese )

Christina Quynh

2021-03-15 04:03

Meaning of A nest of vipers

Synonyms:

bad people , dangerous animals

A nest of vipers literary phrase

A group of bad or sinful people. Sometimes, it may indicate aminals or other living things that also cause danger.

You 'd better stay away from them. They are a nest of vipers.

After a two-month probation period, I realized that I have been working with a nest of vipers.

John should leave that house or he will be one of them, becoming a nest of vipers.

Other phrases about:

Long Pole in the Tent

somebody or something that causes delay in a project or a task that takes a long period of time to finish

to count noses

To count the number of people in a group to determine who is present

the world the flesh and the devil

All sources of sin or temptation

strong nerves

An ability to not be upset by unpleasant things.

to save someone's skin

To rescue someone from danger or difficulty.

Origin of A nest of vipers

19th century engraving of a nest of vipers — A group of bad or sinful people
(Image Source: sciencephoto.com)

The phrase was first used in 1644. It comes from one of the Aesop's fables which call The farmer and the snake. In the story, the snake was rescued from freezing to death by a farmer. However, it mortally bit him when it recovered. Therefore, the snake is considered a symbol of danger and wickedness.