The term “cottonmouth” has a couple of meanings:
1. **In a zoological context**, it refers to a venomous snake known scientifically as Agkistrodon piscivorus, commonly found in the southeastern United States. The cottonmouth is named for the white, cotton-like coloration of its mouth, which it displays when threatened. It is also known as the water moccasin.
2. **In a colloquial context**, “cottonmouth” describes a condition of dry mouth, often caused by dehydration or as a side effect of certain substances, such as marijuana.
Depending on the context in which it is used, “cottonmouth” can refer to either the snake or the sensation of dry mouth.
