Boa: meaning, definitions and examples

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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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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.

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "boa" in other languages:

🇵🇹 boa

добра
хороша

🇮🇳 अच्छा

अच्छी
बढ़िया

🇩🇪 gut

gute
wohl

🇮🇩 baik

🇺🇦 добра

🇵🇱 dobra

🇯🇵 良い (よい)

🇫🇷 bonne

🇪🇸 buena

🇹🇷 iyi

🇰🇷 좋은 (좋다)

🇸🇦 جيدة (jayyida)

🇨🇿 dobrá

🇸🇰 dobrá

🇨🇳 好 (hǎo)

🇸🇮 dobra

🇮🇸 góð

🇰🇿 жақсы

🇬🇪 კარგი (k'argi)

🇦🇿 yaxşı

🇲🇽 buena

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.

...
26755 uninfluenced
26756 rescinding
26757 diplomatically
26758 boa
26759 leaner
26760 chancre
26761 bassoon
...