capybara

noun

cap·​y·​bara ˌka-pi-ˈber-ə 

-ˈba-rə,

-ˈbär-ə 

: a tailless semiaquatic South and Central American rodent (Hydrochaerus hydrochaeris) often exceeding four feet (1.2 meters) in length

Illustration of capybara

Examples of capybara in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Joined by a capybara, a lemur, a bird, and a dog, the cat embarks on a perilous journey by boat in search of dry land. —Clayton Davis, Variety, 13 Aug. 2024

The jaguar lunged; the capybaras barked a warning, then zipped into the water. —Stephanie Vermillion, Vogue, 13 Aug. 2024

One of the larger animals appears to be leading the group, with the rest of the capybaras slowly marching behind one after another. —Kelli Bender, Peoplemag, 9 July 2024

August 13, 2024 Nerves loop-de-looped in my stomach as the jaguar slinked toward a herd of capybaras. —Stephanie Vermillion, Vogue, 13 Aug. 2024

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

Kids Definition

capybara

noun

cap·​y·​bara ˌkap-i-ˈbar-ə  -ˈbär- 

: a tailless South American rodent often exceeding four feet (1.2 meters) in length that is often found in or near water