Ca`py*ba"ra (?), n. [Sp. capibara, fr. the native name.] Zool.
A large South American rodent (Hydrochaerus capybara) Living on the margins of lakes and rivers. It is the largest extant rodent, being about three feet long, and half that in height. It somewhat resembles the Guinea pig, to which it is related; -- called also cabiai and water hog.
© Webster 1913.