boa constrictor

The term "boa constrictor" refers to a large, non-venomous snake known for its method of killing prey through constriction. It is native to tropical regions of Central and South America.

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Definition

B2Zoology

(technical, scientific)A large, non-venomous snake found in tropical regions of Central and South America that kills prey by wrapping around and squeezing them.

Example

  • The boa constrictor is often found in rainforests, where it hunts small mammals and birds.
  • A boa constrictor can grow up to 10 feet in length.

B1General

(informal)Any large snake that kills its prey by squeezing, often loosely referring to pythons.

Example

  • Many people mistakenly call large pythons boa constrictors.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "boa constrictor":

emerald tree boatree boagreen snakewater snakebrown snakesnake vinecarpet snake