This rare word appears only in Psalm 140:3, describing the venom of dangerous creatures used metaphorically for enemies' speech. The ancient versions generally understood it as a type of poisonous snake, specifically a viper or asp. However, some scholars suggest it might be a textual corruption of 'akkabish' (spider), given the similar context in Job where spider's venom is mentioned. The Targum supports the spider interpretation, while Greek and Latin versions preferred the serpent identification. Either way, the psalm employs the image of deadly poison to characterize slanderous, destructive speech.