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.
The coat included a soft ostrich-feather boa along its front and wide cuffs. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2026 Popular comedian Antonis Kanakis poked fun at the 57-year-old’s flamboyant outfits in a skit posted online, donning a black wig and shimmering silver dress with a pink feather boa. — ABC News, 14 Oct. 2026 So, grab your boa, round up the group chat, and book that nail appointment. — Amanda Le, InStyle, 9 Sep. 2026 Or, as befits Mandy’s fashion sense, the next feather in a boa. — Arsenio Orteza, SPIN, 24 Aug. 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 Nov. 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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