A definition of the the word Serpent

The English word Serpent has been derived from the Latin serpens with the basic root of SRP, which through sound shifts within the Indo-European language, also incorporates SRB, SRF, SRPH, and SRV. For example the following words in English with this root:

SeRVe – to perform a duty.

SuRVive – to outlive; have a long life.

SuRVey – to examine, or dignose.

SyRuP – a term used in early medicine.

SuRPlice – a white covering, used in Druid and Christian ceremonies, cognate with the white overall used in hospitals.

The closest association is with SERAPH, one of a group of angels known in plural as SERAPHIM. The Hebrew word rapha meant healer, surgeon or doctor. The term Ser (Sir) meant a higher being or guardian angel; hence a reasonable deduction that the SERAPHIM were a corps of medical angels.

The Egyptian god SERAPHIS had medical associations; his temple at Memphis which contained a hospital, was called a SERAPEUM.

Additionally, SERAPION was an eminent physician of Alexandria in the third century A.D., a name derived from his profession.

It must be acknowledged that the term SERPENT had wider associations with wisdom and wise men or women.
 
From the Shining Ones by Christian and Barbara Joy O’Brien.