boa

[ boh-uh ]

noun

, plural bo·as.

1. any of several nonvenomous, chiefly tropical constrictors of the family Boidae, having vestigial hind limbs at the base of the tail.
2. a scarf or stole of feathers, fur, or fabric.

boa

/ ˈbəʊə /

noun

1. any large nonvenomous snake of the family Boidae , most of which occur in Central and South America and the Caribbean. They have vestigial hind limbs and kill their prey by constriction
2. a woman's long thin scarf, usually of feathers or fur

Word History and Origins

Origin of boa¹

1350–1400; Middle English < Latin: water adder

Word History and Origins

Origin of boa¹

C19: from New Latin, from Latin: a large Italian snake, water snake

Example Sentences

Break out your rainbow boas and glittering tiaras and sashay your way to this can’t-miss show.

From Seattle Times

Posey, who uses the stage name Mona Liza Million, performed three times at the Pride in the Park celebration wearing a long-sleeve leotard, black shorts and tights, with a shiny metallic boa around his waist.

From Seattle Times

Down the aisle between the crowds she hobbled on her matchstick, wearing her rusty tiara and a caterpillar boa.

From Literature

In addresses to paying clients, Santos dons the signature red lipstick and feather boa that previously caused so much controversy, offering advice to some, including to partying friends of “Dave.”

From Salon

She wore a white mini skirt, a sparkly white boa, and a powder blue halter top with matching cowboy boots.

From Salon

Related Words

• bandanna
• shawl
• stole