capybara
masculine
The French word for capybara is capybara. Wiktionary also lists cabiai.
Meaning: Hydrochoerus (noun)
Ways to say it
| French | Note |
|---|---|
| capybara | masculine |
| cabiai | masculine |
The word refers to the large semi-aquatic rodent known as Hydrochoerus.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The term capybara is used in Switzerland and Belgium.
How does it change in a sentence?
Both capybara and cabiai are masculine nouns.
Did you know?
- While the French word capybara is used in common language, the scientific term hydrochoère is a literal translation of the Greek for 'water pig'.
- The term capybara in French has no hidden slang or double meanings, remaining strictly a zoological term.
- If you see the word cabiai in a French text, it is not a typo for 'capybara' but an alternative noun used in specialized biological circles.
Examples in context
- J'ai vu un capybara aujourd'hui dans le parc!I saw a capybara today in the park!
- Le capybara est un animal très calme.The capybara is a very calm animal.
- J'ai vu un capybara au zoo.I saw a capybara at the zoo.
- Ce capybara nage dans l'eau.This capybara is swimming in the water.
Example conversation
Emma and Nathan are watching a nature documentary together.
- EmmaRegarde ce gros capybara sur l'écran.Look at that big capybara on the screen.
- NathanOui, il a l'air très paisible.Yes, he looks very peaceful.
- EmmaEst-ce que le capybara est amical ?Is the capybara friendly?
- NathanD'après le documentaire, il est très sociable.According to the documentary, he is very sociable.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “capybara” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.