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Anaconda Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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anaconda

[ˌæn.əˈkɒn.də ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

animal species

An anaconda is a large snake found in tropical South America, known for its impressive size and strength. It is one of the heaviest and longest snakes in the world, belonging to the boa family. Anacondas are primarily aquatic and are often found in swamps, marshes, and slow-moving streams. They are non-venomous constrictors, which means they kill their prey by wrapping around and suffocating it. Common species include the green anaconda, which can grow over 29 feet in length.

Synonyms

boa, constrictor, serpent.

Examples of usage

  • The green anaconda can weigh over 550 pounds.
  • Anacondas are known to inhabit the Amazon River basin.
  • The anaconda is often featured in documentaries about wildlife.
  • In some cultures, the sighting of an anaconda is seen as a sign of good fortune.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Habitat

  • Anacondas primarily inhabit swamps, marshes, and slow-moving streams in the Amazon Basin.
  • The green anaconda, the largest species, is known to thrive in both aquatic and terrestrial environments.

Behavior and Diet

  • These snakes are non-venomous constrictors, wrapping around their prey until it suffocates before swallowing it whole.
  • They mainly prey on animals like fish, birds, pigs, and even caimans, using their strength to overpower them.

Pop Culture

  • Anacondas have been featured in several movies and documentaries, cementing their status as an iconic snake.
  • The 1997 film 'Anaconda' became a cult classic, highlighting the dangers and allure of these massive snakes.

Science and Conservation

  • Research indicates that anacondas can hold their breath underwater for up to 10 minutes while stalking prey.
  • Conservation efforts are in place to protect their habitats, as deforestation and hunting threaten their populations.

Origin of 'anaconda'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'anaconda' may come from the Sinhalese 'henakandaya,' meaning 'a serpent.'
  • European exploration in South America popularized the word, as the snake's impressive size captured many imaginations.

The word 'anaconda' comes from the late 19th century, with its origins likely traced back to the Sinhalese word 'huna-kanda', which means 'snake'. The term was adopted by English speakers and gradually transformed into 'anaconda'. Historically, anacondas have been part of folklore and mythology in various South American cultures, often symbolizing strength and mystery. Over time, as European explorers and naturalists encountered these massive snakes, the term became widely recognized, leading to more scientific explorations of the species and its habitat. As global interest in exotic animals grew, the anaconda gained notoriety for its size and predatory abilities, further embedding the word in modern language and popular culture.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,271, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.