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

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

Positioned where the Atlantic Forest gives way to the Brazilian Cerrado, the estate sits at a rare ecological crossroads—expect toucans, monkeys, and the occasional capybara in the backyard. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 5 Aug. 2025

Some of the more unique animals at the zoo include the python, giant anteater, cheetah, flamingos, Florida panther and the capybara. —Amy Bentley, Oc Register, 23 July 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