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

Where can capybaras be seen in Kentucky? —Lillian Metzmeier, Louisville Courier Journal, 3 Oct. 2025

Most of the signs of overstimulation for animals like dogs and cats can also apply to capybara. —Gillian Stawiszynski, Cincinnati Enquirer, 29 Sep. 2025

After twenty years of voicing a beloved cartoon capybara, a Black actor undergoes vocal surgery to escape the character that defines — and confines — her. —Kirsten Chuba, HollywoodReporter, 3 Sep. 2025

Animal lovers can get up close and personal with capybaras during a special event at an Osceola County animal rescue. —Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 20 Aug. 2025

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

Rhymes for capybara

• arikara
• ishihara
• alara
• amara
• antara
• aymara
• bambara
• camara
• damara
• gandhara
• gemara
• gurdwara

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