VocabDictionary

selva

/ˈsɛw.vɐ/beginner Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A dense, tropical forest or jungle characterized by thick vegetation and high biodiversity.

Example Sentences:
  • A selva amazônica é a maior floresta tropical do mundo.
  • Eles se perderam na selva durante a expedição.
2.noun

A metaphorical term for a chaotic, lawless, or highly competitive environment.

Example Sentences:
  • O mercado financeiro pode ser uma verdadeira selva para os iniciantes.
  • Nesta selva de pedra, é difícil encontrar um pouco de paz.
Share & Learn With Friends

Share “selva” with study groups, classmates, or on your social channels.

English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “selva”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'silva', meaning 'forest', 'wood', or 'woodland'. It shares the same root as the English word 'sylvan'. In Portuguese, it evolved to specifically denote dense, tropical, or untamed forest regions.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'savage' forest; 'selva' sounds like the beginning of 'savage', and a jungle is a wild, savage environment.

Frequently Asked Questions About “selva

1. What is the meaning of “selva” in English?

In English, selva (noun) is defined as: “A dense, tropical forest or jungle characterized by thick vegetation and high biodiversity.”.

2. How do you use “selva” in a sentence?

A selva amazônica é a maior floresta tropical do mundo.

3. What are English synonyms of “selva”?

Common synonyms include:floresta,mata,bosque,selvageria

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “selva”?

Derived from the Latin 'silva', meaning 'forest', 'wood', or 'woodland'. It shares the same root as the English word 'sylvan'. In Portuguese, it evolved to specifically denote dense, tropical, or untamed forest regions.