1. (Zoöl.)
Defn: Any species of very large snakes of the genus Python, and allied genera, of the family Pythonidæ. They are nearly allied to the boas. Called also rock snake.
Note: The pythons have small pelvic bones, or anal spurs, two rows of subcaudal scales, and pitted labials. They are found in Africa, Asia, and the East Indies.
2. A diviner by spirits. "[Manasses] observed omens, and appointed pythons." 4 Kings xxi. 6 (Douay version).
PYTHONESS
Pyth"o*ness, n. Etym: [L. pythonissa: cf. F. pythonisse. See
Pythian.]
1. (Gr. Antiq.)
Defn: The priestess who gave oracular answers at Delphi in Greece.
2. Any woman supposed to have a spirit of divination; a sort of witch. Bp. Hall.
PYTHONIC
Py*thon"ic, a. Etym: [L. pythonicus, Gr. Pythian.]
Defn: Prophetic; oracular; pretending to foretell events.