Viper in bosom

Meaning

The idiom "viper in the bosom" refers to a person or thing that appears harmless or trustworthy but is secretly dangerous, treacherous, or deceitful. It suggests that the person or thing is hiding something harmful or harmful intent and can strike at any time without warning.

Usage

• The company hired her despite her shady past and she turned out to be a viper in the bosom, stealing money from employees.
• The politician's charismatic demeanor belied his true intentions as a viper in the bosom, plotting to undermine his opponents.
• The seemingly innocent young girl was actually a viper in the bosom, manipulating her family for personal gain.
• The company overlooked the warning signs and failed to identify the viper in the bosom who eventually caused significant financial damage.
• The once-trusted colleague became a viper in the bosom, spreading rumors about the boss's leadership style. The usage of this idiom can vary depending on the context. It can be used in a serious or sarcastic manner, depending on the situation and the speaker's intent.

Roots and History

The earliest known use of the idiom "viper in the bosom" dates back to the 17th century. The phrase was first used in Thomas Nashe's play "Fiddlesticks," which was published in 1602. In this play, a character refers to another character as a "serpent in the bosom." Over time, the phrase evolved into its current form and took on its metaphorical meaning.

Synonyms in English

• Wolf in sheep's clothing
• Trojan horse
• Snake in the grass
• Poisonous apple
• Time bomb

Synonyms in other languages

• Serpent en l'herbe (French) - translates to "snake in the grass"
• Ajila (Arabic) - a term that refers to someone who is deceitful and treacherous
• Wrota (Czech) - a word that means "gates" or "portals," but can also refer to a person who appears harmless on the surface but hides something dangerous
• Zmej pod kůlem (Czech) - translates to "snake under the rug" and refers to someone who is hiding something harmful or deceitful
• Ugly duckling (Swedish) - a term that refers to someone who appears unremarkable or plain on the surface but has hidden talents or qualities

Similar Idioms

• I could eat a horse

• bring home the bacon

• stab in the back