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

Pugh accessorized with a feather boa and gold statement jewelry. —Lara Walsh, InStyle, 24 May 2026

For the most part, most of them wore gowns that could fit through the revolving door at the Hotel Du Cap onto the grand descending stairway, read few came close to rivaling Skye Hankey’s boa yellow dress last year which provided an elegant challenge for exits and entrances. —Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 22 May 2026

The audience wore more neckties than feather boas, though plenty of those. —Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 17 May 2026

The rosy boa and tarantula are among my favorites to view. —Jaclyn Cosgrove, Los Angeles Times, 7 May 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