lynx

lynx

noun \ˈliŋ(k)s\

plural lynx or lynx·es

Definition of LYNX

: any of several wildcats with relatively long legs, a short stubby tail, mottled coat, and often tufted ears that are thought to comprise a distinct genus (Lynx) of the cat family or to be part of a genus (Felis) that includes the domestic cat and cougar as

a : a lynx (L. lynx) of northern Europe and Asia

b : bobcat

c : a North American lynx (L. canadensis) distinguished from the bobcat by its larger size, longer tufted ears, and wholly black tail tip —called also Canadian lynx

Illustration of LYNX

Origin of LYNX

Middle English, from Latin, from Greek; akin to Old English lox lynx and probably to Greek leukos white — more at light

First Known Use: 14th century

Rhymes with LYNX

jinx

lynx

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Any of three species of short-tailed forest cat (genus Lynx) found in Europe, Asia, and northern North America. The North American lynx (Lynx canadensis) is regarded as distinct from the Eurasian and Spanish (Iberian) species. The lynx has long legs, large paws, tufted ears, hairy soles, and a broad, short head. Its coat, which forms a bushy ruff on the neck, is tawny to cream-coloured and mottled with brown and black. Its dense, soft winter fur has been used for trimming garments. Lynx are approximately 30–40 in. (80–100 cm) long, without the 4–8-in. (10–20-cm) tail, and stand about 24 in. (60 cm) high at the shoulder. They weigh 20–45 lb (10–20 kg). Nocturnal and silent except during mating season, lynx live alone or in small groups. They climb and swim well and feed on birds, small mammals, and occasionally deer. Some regional populations of lynx are considered endangered.