boa

noun

ˈbō-ə How to pronounce boa (audio)
Synonyms of boanext
1
: any of a family (Boidae) of large snakes that kill by constriction and that includes the boa constrictor, anaconda, and python
2
: a long fluffy scarf

Examples of boa 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.
Or, as befits Mandy’s fashion sense, the next feather in a boa. — Arsenio Orteza, SPIN, 24 Aug. 2026 Como é bonito ver que não temos de tomar decisões partindo de um ponto de vista limitado, e, em vez disso, podemos confiar mais em Deus, que sabe tudo e cuida sem falha de todos nós, por sermos Suas ideias realmente boas. — The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 19 Aug. 2026 Cheers erupted when Griffin, Parker and her two children from previous relationships led a calf with a giant pink boa and a fluffy pink flower around its neck into the yard. — Kc Baker, PEOPLE, 16 June 2026 Pugh accessorized with a feather boa and gold statement jewelry. — Lara Walsh, InStyle, 24 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for boa

Word History

Etymology

Latin, a water snake

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of boa was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing boa

Rhymes for boa

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Browse Nearby Words

Bo
boa
boabab
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Cite this Entry

“Boa.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/boa. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

boa

noun
ˈbō-ə How to pronounce boa (audio)
1
: any of various large snakes (as the boa constrictor, anaconda, or python) that crushes its prey
2
: a long fluffy scarf of fur, feathers, or fabric

More from Merriam-Webster on boa

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for boa

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about boa

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