boa

noun

ˈbō-ə 

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

One sign is the sheer number of boas in Cabo Rojo and Cambalache. —Benji Jones, Vox, 21 May 2024

The two-wheeled boa lacing system ratchets to just the right tension so the shoe ends up feeling custom designed for your own foot. —Stephanie Pearson, WIRED, 31 May 2021

Clad in a baby blue gown and a white fur boa with her seemingly endless jet-black inches crowned with a tiara, JT – Miami’s reigning hip-hop princess – celebrated the release of her debut solo mixtape, City Cinderella (July 19 via Quality Control/Motown). —Kyle Denis, Billboard, 1 Aug. 2024

This rainbow boa hadn't touched another snake in years. —Julia Gomez, USA TODAY, 13 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin, a water snake

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing boa

• boa constrictor

Kids Definition

boa

noun

ˈbō-ə 

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