Final answer:
The connotative meaning of 'snake' typically refers to a deceitful person because of the cultural associations that link the animal with treachery and betrayal. The connotative meaning of the word 'snake' is option (4) "A deceitful person."
Step-by-step explanation:
In the sentence, the connotative meaning of the word 'snake' is option (4) "A deceitful person." The term "snake" is often used metaphorically to describe someone who is cunning, treacherous, or deceitful, likely due to the association with the snake's reputation in various cultural narratives as a symbol of cunning or trickery. When applied to a person, calling them a "snake" implies a sense of untrustworthiness or hidden motives, drawing on the negative qualities traditionally attributed to snakes. This connotation might evoke a sense of caution or wariness when dealing with someone described as a "snake" in this context. The choice of words carries a metaphorical weight, enhancing the language's expressiveness.