boa

noun

ˈbō-ə 

1

: any of a family (Boidae) of large snakes that kill by constriction and that includes the boa constrictor, anaconda, and python

2

: a long fluffy scarf

Examples of boa in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Lungs whirred about the room in an electric wheelchair festooned in feather boas and Christmas lights, studiously avoiding serious questions about whether his conveyance was a tasteless prop or a medical necessity. — Literary Hub, 30 Oct. 2026

Once the reception began, her lace topper was replaced with a feather boa to spice up the look. — Shelby Wax, Vogue, 30 Oct. 2026

The coat included a soft ostrich-feather boa along its front and wide cuffs. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2026

Popular comedian Antonis Kanakis poked fun at the 57-year-old’s flamboyant outfits in a skit posted online, donning a black wig and shimmering silver dress with a pink feather boa. — ABC News, 14 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin, a water snake

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing boa

• boa constrictor

Rhymes for boa

• bryozoa
• metazoa
• polyzoa
• protozoa
• noa
• noah
• shoah
• toa
• quinoa
• spermatozoa

Kids Definition

boa

noun

ˈbō-ə 

1

: any of various large snakes (as the boa constrictor, anaconda, or python) that crushes its prey

2

: a long fluffy scarf of fur, feathers, or fabric