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.
But no known boa alive today actively specializes in hunting fish. Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 21 Apr. 2025 The boa couldn’t have survived on its own in the wild, according to the post. Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Apr. 2025 My friend Heather, who makes her own jewelry, sometimes wears an attractive feather boa to complement an outfit. Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 18 Apr. 2025 Props including feather boas, oversized glasses and retro telephones will be available on set. Kati Chitrakorn, CNN Money, 31 Mar. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Boa.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/boa. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

boa

noun
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

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