The Greek word “drakon”

Limited to the final book in our English Bibles and used thirteen times (Rev. 12:3-4, 7, 9, 13, 16-17; 13:2, 4, 11; 16:13; 20:2), the Greek word “drakon” meant “serpent” or “dragon.”  John used this term to describe Satan.  Perhaps this word is why Satan is sometimes viewed as a fiery creature who has a pitchfork with him.

In commenting on the periods of Classical Greek and the Old Testament era The Dictionary of New Testament Theology (1:507) said drakon “is derived from derkomai, look at, and is the animal with the bewitching, crippling look:  the dragon, snake, giant sea-snake, or serpent.  In many old myths he dragon or serpent is a picture of the primeval power of chaos.”