leopard
UK: ˈlɛpəd | US: ˈlɛpərd
n. a large, solitary cat with a yellowish coat and black spots, native to Africa and parts of Asia.
n. (heraldry) a lion passant guardant, as a heraldic device.
leopard = leo<lion> + pard<panther>
- leo: From Latin leo (lion), derived from Greek λέων (léōn).
- pard: From Latin pardus (panther), borrowed from Greek πάρδος (párdos), originally referring to a spotted big cat.
Etymology Origin:
The word "leopard" originates from the ancient belief that this animal was a hybrid of a lion (leo) and a panther (pard). In Greek and Roman natural history, it was thought to combine traits of both creatures. Over time, the term evolved to specifically denote the spotted feline we recognize today, shedding its mythical hybrid connotation but retaining the linguistic fusion.
The leopard stealthily climbed the tree to stash its prey.
Leopards are known for their remarkable adaptability to diverse habitats.
In the jungle, the leopard's spotted coat provides perfect camouflage.
The heraldic leopard symbolizes courage and vigilance.
Unlike lions, leopards are solitary and highly territorial.