zebra

noun

ze·​bra ˈzē-brə 

Canadian and British also ˈze-

plural zebras

1

plural also zebra : any of several swift African mammals (Equus grevyi, E. quagga, and E. zebra) related to the horse but distinctively and conspicuously patterned in stripes of black or dark brown and white or buff

2

[from the shirts patterned in black-and-white stripes worn by football referees] : referee sense 2

3

: zebra crossing

zebrine

ˈzē-ˌbrīn 

Canadian and British also ˈze-

adjective or noun

Examples of zebra in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Then let a softer side emerge through Liberowe’s fringe-trim jacket, Khaite’s zebra-print handbag, and a pair of dazzling Dorsey earrings. —Laura Jackson, Vogue, 9 Dec. 2025

The 29-year-old model and Rhode founder sported zebra print pants, a furry leopard print bag, and at least three fur coats—but her cheetah nails took the cake. —Glamour, 8 Dec. 2025

Dressed in a zebra print top and shorts, the suspect, identified as Landon Germanotta-Mills, 26, by police, the Associated Press reports, was led out of the apartment in the city’s Waterloo section in handcuffs. —Kc Baker, PEOPLE, 1 Dec. 2025

Its prime location on top of the Boro River still attracts thirsty zebras, buffalo, impalas, and other wildlife that can be seen from the main lodge or from the suites. —Travis Levius, Travel + Leisure, 29 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Portuguese zebra, zebro wild ass, perhaps from Latin equiferus, kind of wild horse, from equus horse + ferus wild — more at equine, fierce

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing zebra

• Grevy's zebra
• zebra crossing
• zebra finch
• zebra fish
• zebra mussel

Rhymes for zebra

• libra

Kids Definition

zebra

noun

ze·​bra ˈzēb-rə 

plural zebras also zebra

1

: any of several hoofed plant-eating African mammals that are related to the horse, have a hide striped in black or dark brown and white or buff, and are swift runners

2

: a small Indian fish with blue and silver stripes that is often kept in tropical aquariums