ˈriŋˌhals noun
also rin·kals ˈriŋˌkals
( -es )
Etymology: Afrikaans rinkals (formerly spelled ringhals ), from ring (from Middle Dutch rinc ) + hals neck, from Middle Dutch; akin to Old High German hring ring and to Old High German hals neck — more at ring , collar
: a venomous African elapid snake ( Haemachates haemachatus ) that is closely related to the true cobras but has keeled scales and that seldom strikes but spits or sprays its venom aiming at the eyes of its victim where the poison causes intense pain and possible blindness — called also spitting snake