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Kreuzotter

common adder

noun KROYTS-ot-ter Rare
Animals & Nature Wild Animals

Also means

European adder

Usage Note

Kreuzotter (Vipera berus) is Germany's only venomous snake, recognisable by the zig-zag pattern on its back (Kreuz = cross/X). Bites are rare and seldom fatal, but it is a protected species. Otter alone can mean adder or otter, so the compound avoids confusion.

Examples

"Beim Wandern in der Heide sollte man auf die Kreuzotter achten."

Natural Translation

When hiking on the heath one should watch out for the adder.

Literal Translation

When hiking in the heath should one on the adder pay-attention.

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