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Boa Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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boa

[ˈboʊə ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

snake

A large snake found in tropical America and the Caribbean, with a dark color pattern and distinctive markings.

Synonyms

constrictor, python, serpent.

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Word Description / Examples
boa

Can also refer to 'boa' as a fashion accessory, often made from feathers or similar materials, and is worn around the neck.

  • She wore a red feather boa to the costume party, making a grand entrance.
  • A boa can add a touch of elegance to evening wear.
python

Used to talk about a specific type of large, non-venomous snake found in Asia, Africa, and Australia. Common in discussions about wildlife, zoos, or herpetology.

  • The python slithered silently through the underbrush, on the hunt for prey.
  • Pythons can grow to impressive lengths, making them fascinating subjects for documentaries.
serpent

Used in literary or mythological contexts to describe a snake, often with an ominous or symbolic connotation. It can carry negative or mysterious tones.

  • In ancient mythology, the serpent often represents evil or chaos.
  • The knight faced the serpent in the dark forest, ready for a deadly battle.
constrictor

Frequently used to describe snakes that kill their prey by squeezing or constricting them. Often used in scientific or educational contexts.

  • The constrictor wrapped around its prey tightly, suffocating it gradually.
  • Biologists studied the feeding habits of the constrictor.

Examples of usage

  • Watch out for the boa constrictor in the jungle.
  • The boa slithered silently through the undergrowth.
Context #2 | Noun

clothing

A long, lightweight scarf worn around the neck.

Synonyms

scarf, stole, wrap.

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Word Description / Examples
boa

Wear 'boa' when referring to a long, thin piece of clothing made from feathers, often used for glamorous or dramatic effect, most commonly seen in performances or costume attire.

  • She draped a feather boa around her shoulders for the masquerade ball.
  • The performer danced on stage with a vibrant red boa.

Examples of usage

  • She wrapped the boa around her neck to keep warm.
  • The actress wore a feathered boa with her evening gown.
Context #3 | Noun

aviation

Boarding of aircraft.

Synonyms

boarding, embarkation, entrance.

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Word Description / Examples
boa

Also refers to a large, non-venomous snake found in tropical America, known for suffocating its prey.

  • The boa constrictor slowly wound itself around the tree branch.
  • He was fascinated by the expedition where they captured a giant boa in the rainforest.
boarding

Commonly used in the context of getting on or entering a mode of transportation such as a plane, train, or ship.

  • Passengers are now boarding flight 302 to New York.
  • Boarding for the cruise will begin at 3 PM.
embarkation

Refers specifically to the act of going aboard a ship or aircraft, typically used in more formal or official contexts.

  • Embarkation will commence after the final safety checks are complete.
  • The soldiers prepared for embarkation, knowing the journey would be long and arduous.
entrance

Describes the act of entering a place or a point of entry itself, can be used in a variety of contexts including buildings, performances, and events.

  • The main entrance to the building is through the revolving doors.
  • He made a dramatic entrance at the gala, turning heads as he walked in.

Examples of usage

  • Passengers must proceed to the gate for boa.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Boas give birth to live young instead of laying eggs, which is not common among many snake species.
  • They have heat-sensing pits on their faces to detect warm-blooded prey, aiding in hunting even in the dark.
  • Some boa species can grow over 10 feet long, making them among the largest snakes in the world.

Cultural Significance

  • Boas are often featured in folk tales and legends, symbolizing power, danger, or transformation in various cultures.
  • In fashion, a 'boa' refers to a soft, feathery wrap that is seen in glamorous performances and red-carpet events.
  • The use of boa constrictors in traditional medicine practices highlights their deep-rooted presence in human history.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, boas often represent danger or exotic beauty; think of movies that include snake handling or safari themes.
  • Animated films sometimes feature boa characters as wise or mystical, playing crucial roles that guide protagonists.
  • The phrase 'having a boa' can colloquially refer to a showy or extravagant style, derived from the feathered accessory.

Environmental Role

  • Boas are important in their ecosystems as both predators and prey, helping to maintain population balance.
  • As adaptable creatures, they can thrive in various habitats, including rainforests, deserts, and mountains.
  • Some species are threatened due to habitat loss and the pet trade, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.

Origin of 'boa'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'boa' comes from Latin, referring to a 'large snake'.
  • In ancient times, the term was used to describe various serpents, particularly those noted for their size and constricting behavior.
  • The scientific family name for these snakes is Boidae, which encompasses different species, including pythons.

The word 'boa' originated in the late 17th century, derived from Spanish 'boa', ultimately from Latin 'bōa' meaning 'large snake'. Over time, the term expanded to include other meanings such as a type of scarf and the boarding of aircraft.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,758, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.