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

There are no varsity quarterbacks or Olympic hopefuls among these quirkmasters, just a heaping of outcasts who believe their lot in life rests on words like capybara and tittup. —David John Chávez, Mercury News, 2 Mar. 2026

In the fair’s entertainment lineup, attendees can get up close with exotic animals, including capybaras and ostriches at the Turn Around Petting Zoo or see an Otter Adventure show. —Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 25 Feb. 2026

While previous years were marked by the llama, axolotl, and mini highland cow, this year, capybaras are having a moment. —Anja Webb, Parents, 24 Feb. 2026

The film centers on a cat that tries to survive a devastating flood alongside a diverse group of animals, including a capybara, a lemur, and a Labrador Retriever. —Danny Horn, Entertainment Weekly, 22 Feb. 2026

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