1. in Greek mythology, tree nymphs who live in and are bound to specific trees, dying when their tree dies
Usage: mythology
2. large venomous snakes found in Africa and Asia, also called king cobras
Usage: zoology

Examples

• The ancient Greeks believed hamadryads would perish if their oak trees were cut down.
• In the forest myth, the hamadryads protected their sacred groves from woodcutters.
• The story featured hamadryads who could only venture a short distance from their trees.
• Hamadryads are among the most dangerous snakes in the world.
• The zoo’s reptile exhibit included several hamadryads behind thick glass.
• Wildlife researchers studied the hunting patterns of hamadryads in their natural habitat.