The Greek noun drakon refers to a great dragon or serpent — a mythological monster of enormous power. In Revelation, it becomes the primary title for Satan in his most fearsome aspect.
Drakon is used 13 times in Revelation, exclusively referring to Satan (Revelation 12:9 identifies him: 'The great dragon was hurled down — that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan'). The word connects the final enemy of God to the serpent of Genesis 3 — revealing that the enemy who deceived Eve in the Garden is the same power who wages cosmic war against God's people throughout history. Yet Revelation presents the dragon as ultimately defeated: 'the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven' (12:7-8).