fer-de-lance
UK[ˌfɛə də ˈlɑːns]US[ˌfɛr də ˈlæns]
n
A large, highly venomous pit viper found in tropical America.
Etymology
The term 'fer-de-lance' is a direct borrowing from French, where it literally means "iron of a lance" or "lance head." This name was applied metaphorically to the snake, drawing a vivid comparison between the shape of its head and the pointed tip of a medieval lance. The French term itself is a combination of 'fer' (iron), 'de' (of), and 'lance' (lance). The word entered English in the late 19th century as zoological nomenclature, retaining its original French spelling and its evocative, descriptive meaning to identify this dangerous reptile.
Analysis
This is a simplex term borrowed as a whole from French. It is not productively formed from separable English morphemes.
Examples
The fer-de-lance is considered one of the most dangerous snakes in Central and South America.
Researchers wore protective gear while studying the fer-de-lance in its natural habitat.
A bite from a fer-de-lance requires immediate medical attention due to its potent venom.