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

Positioned where the Atlantic Forest gives way to the Brazilian Cerrado, the estate sits at a rare ecological crossroads—expect toucans, monkeys, and the occasional capybara in the backyard. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 5 Aug. 2025

Some of the more unique animals at the zoo include the python, giant anteater, cheetah, flamingos, Florida panther and the capybara. —Amy Bentley, Oc Register, 23 July 2025

With two treatments, the capybaras should be sterile for at least a few months. —Michael Nied, People.com, 18 Apr. 2025

Making their return will be capybaras, the largest rodents in the animal kingdom and native to the riverbanks of Central and South America, according to the San Diego Zoo. —Daniel McFadin, Arkansas Online, 24 June 2025

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