capybara

noun

cap·​y·​bara ˌka-pi-ˈber-ə How to pronounce capybara (audio)
-ˈba-rə,
-ˈbär-ə How to pronounce capybara (audio)
: a tailless semiaquatic South and Central American rodent (Hydrochaerus hydrochaeris) often exceeding four feet (1.2 meters) in length

Illustration of capybara

Illustration of capybara

Examples of capybara in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There was also the Capin — its surprising inspiration was the capybara, seen in its chocolate suede and golden braid motif on a curving open tote, offered in two sizes. Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2025 In the series, Panda HoHo will form part of a trio of Brazilian animals, with a Golden Lion Tamarin, a symbol of Brazilian biodiversity, and Capy, an adventurous capybara. Marcelo Cajueiro, Variety, 4 Oct. 2025 However, because the animals' natural habitats share some overlap and both have similarly docile dispositions, zoos often group howlers and capybaras together. Rachel Raposas, PEOPLE, 3 Oct. 2025 The larger conversation about caring for capybaras sparks some legal questions about the exotic animal. Lillian Metzmeier, Louisville Courier Journal, 3 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for capybara

Word History

Etymology

Portuguese capibara, capivara, alteration of capiiuara, from Tupi kapiʔiwara, from kapíʔi grass, brush + -wara eater

First Known Use

1774, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of capybara was in 1774

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Cite this Entry

“Capybara.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/capybara. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

capybara

noun
cap·​y·​bara ˌkap-i-ˈbar-ə How to pronounce capybara (audio) -ˈbär- How to pronounce capybara (audio)
: a tailless South American rodent often exceeding four feet (1.2 meters) in length that is often found in or near water

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