feral
UK: ˈfɪərəl | US: ˈfɪrəl
adj. (of an animal) wild, especially after escaping from domestication
adj. resembling a wild animal in behavior or appearance
adj. (archaic) relating to a dead body; funereal
The word feral traces back to Latin ferus, meaning "wild" or "untamed," often describing animals not domesticated by humans. Over time, it evolved into Old French féral (wild, savage) before entering Middle English with its current spelling. The suffix -al solidifies its adjectival form, emphasizing traits of wildness. Historically, it also briefly carried a macabre connotation ("relating to death") in the 17th century, though this usage is now obsolete.
The feral cat hissed and darted into the alley.
After years in the jungle, his appearance became almost feral.
The garden was overrun by feral weeds.
Some argue that urban decay can create a feral environment.
The documentary highlighted efforts to rehabilitate feral dogs.