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

In addition to the giraffes, other wild animals such as southern white rhinos, buffalo, zebras and hundreds of Uganda kobs are being reintroduced. — ABC News, 24 July 2026

Yes, leopard spots, tiger stripes, and zebra prints are neutrals—and a very quick way to add a fashion-forward twist to activewear. — Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 23 July 2026

This mixed chrome manicure combines some of the season’s biggest nail trends, including 3D details, elegant calla lilies, modern French tips, zebra print, polka dots, and mirror-like chrome finishes for a wild yet sophisticated look. — Daisy Maldonado, InStyle, 21 July 2026

The zebras were a little more skittish, but the giraffes were confused by me. — Devon Ivie, Vulture, 20 July 2026

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