Asp (snake)

An asp is a term historically used to refer to several species of venomous snakes found in the Old World, particularly those associated with ancient Egypt. The exact species referred to as an asp varies across historical accounts and regions, leading to some ambiguity.

Historically, the term "asp" was often associated with snakes such as the Egyptian cobra ( Naja haje), which was considered a symbol of royalty and divine authority. It was also sometimes applied to other venomous snakes found in the region, including vipers like the horned viper (Cerastes cerastes) and the saw-scaled viper (Echis coloratus). The use of the term "asp" was common in literary and historical contexts, often linked to stories of suicide and death, most notably in connection with Cleopatra VII, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt.

Due to the imprecise nature of the term, modern herpetology avoids using "asp" as a specific taxonomic designation. When referring to a particular snake, it is important to use its scientific name or a more precise common name. The ambiguity surrounding the term "asp" underscores the evolution of scientific nomenclature and the importance of precise language in biological classification. The continued usage of the term primarily exists in historical, literary, and cultural contexts, often evoking imagery of ancient Egypt and its associations with power and death.