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capybara (kap-ee-BAHR-ah, kap-uh-BAHR-uh) - n., either of two species of large semi-aquatic South American rodents (genus Hydrochaeris).
The one most people know is the greater capybara (H. hydrochaeris) of Brazil and neighboring territories, which grows up to 4ft/1.2m long. The lesser capybara (H. isthmius), which specializes in more marshy habitats and swims even more, is somewhat smaller (3ft/.9m) and lives in northern Columbia/southern Panama. Both are closely related to guinea pigs, and look it. The name is from Portuguese capibara/capivara, alteration of earlier capiiuara, from Old Tupi kapi'iûara, lit. grass-eater.
Regarding the earworm, you're welcome.
---L.
The one most people know is the greater capybara (H. hydrochaeris) of Brazil and neighboring territories, which grows up to 4ft/1.2m long. The lesser capybara (H. isthmius), which specializes in more marshy habitats and swims even more, is somewhat smaller (3ft/.9m) and lives in northern Columbia/southern Panama. Both are closely related to guinea pigs, and look it. The name is from Portuguese capibara/capivara, alteration of earlier capiiuara, from Old Tupi kapi'iûara, lit. grass-eater.
Regarding the earworm, you're welcome.
---L.
