Elaphe is a genus of snakes in the family Colubridae. Elaphe is one of the main genera of the rat snakes, which are found in many regions of the northern hemisphere.

The name Elaphe comes from the Greek word elaphē (ἐλαφῆ), meaning "deerskin," or the related word elaphos (ἔλαφος), meaning "deer". The term was used in New Latin and Ancient Greek to refer to non-venomous snakes, possibly because their smooth, patterned skin resembles deerskin or due to cultural associations with deer-like traits. 

Etymology Breakdown: 
Greek Origin: The root of the name is Ancient Greek.
Elaphē (ἐλαφῆ): This word means "deerskin".
Elaphos (ἔλαφος): This word means "deer".
New Latin: Elaphe is a New Latin term.

Mythology: The word Elaphe also appears in the context of ancient Greek snakes, such as the Aesculapian snakes, which were symbols of healing.