1. Plural of hognose; any of several nonvenomous North American snakes (genus Heterodon) with an upturned snout, known for playing dead when threatened.
Usage: Also called hognose snake or puff adder (regional).; Common in zoology and herpetology contexts.

Examples

• The hognoses in the reptile exhibit are popular attractions because of their dramatic defensive behavior.
• Several hognoses were spotted basking near the woodland path.
• Hognoses are harmless to humans despite their threatening appearance.
• The zoo's collection includes three different species of hognoses.
• Hognoses use their upturned snouts to dig in sandy soil for toads and frogs.