anaconda
/,ænə'kɔndə/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A large, non-venomous constricting snake: An anaconda is a very large, heavy-bodied snake belonging to the boa family, found primarily in tropical South America. It is known for its aquatic habits and powerful constriction.
- A specific genus of large snakes: The term specifically refers to snakes of the genus Eunectes, which are among the heaviest and most powerful snakes in the world.
Examples of Usage
- Noun:
- The anaconda is a formidable predator in the Amazon rainforest.
- We watched a documentary about an anaconda hunting a caiman.
- The sheer size of the green anaconda is legendary.
Advanced Usage
- "Anaconda-like": Used as an adjective to describe something with the constricting or powerful qualities of an anaconda.
- The vines had an anaconda-like grip on the old tree.
- In computing and business jargon, "anaconda" is sometimes used metaphorically to describe a dominant or overwhelming force that absorbs or constricts competition.
Variants and Related Words
- Eunectes: The scientific genus name for anacondas.
- Boa: The family (Boidae) to which anacondas belong. While all anacondas are boas, not all boas are anacondas.
- Constrictor: A general term for snakes that kill prey by coiling around it and squeezing.
Synonyms
- Giant boa: A descriptive synonym emphasizing its size.
- Water boa: Highlights its semi-aquatic nature.
Related Phrases
- Anaconda plan: A historical term for a Union military strategy during the American Civil War, named for its intent to constrict the Confederacy like the snake.
- Anaconda grip: A metaphorical phrase describing an extremely tight and inescapable hold.
Related Idioms
- Like an anaconda: Used to describe a slow, steady, and powerful force that eventually overwhelms.
- The company's market strategy was like an anaconda, slowly squeezing out all competitors.
Noun
- large arboreal boa of tropical South America