leopard

noun

leop·​ard ˈle-pərd 

1

a

: a large strong cat (Panthera pardus) of southern Asia and Africa that is adept at climbing and is usually tawny or buff with black spots arranged in rosettes

called also panther

b

: the fur or pelt of a leopard

2

: a heraldic representation of a lion passant guardant

Illustration of leopard

• leopard 1

Examples of leopard in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The budding photographer started bringing a camera with him on his underwater adventures to document his dives, with imagery posted on social media sharing sea species such as leopard sharks and swaying kelp forests that dance with the ebb of the ocean. —Laylan Connelly, Oc Register, 5 Feb. 2026

The Charlie's Angels alum completed her outfit with some olive green snow boots, square frames, and a leopard print scarf, as well as a fanny pack. —Hannah Malach, InStyle, 3 Feb. 2026

Plus, it’s covered in a leopard print to add some spice to your living room or bedroom. —Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 1 Feb. 2026

While leopard print has long been everywhere, and cow and deer print are experiencing somewhat of a revival, tiger stripes feel much more maligned. —Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 29 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French lepart, leupart, from Late Latin leopardus, from Greek leopardos, from leōn lion + pardos leopard

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing leopard

• a leopard can't change its spots
• clouded leopard
• leopard cat
• leopard frog
• leopard seal
• snow leopard

Rhymes for leopard

• peppered
• shepherd

Kids Definition

leopard

noun

leop·​ard ˈlep-ərd 

: a large strong cat of southern Asia and Africa that has a brownish buff coat with black spots arranged in broken rings

called also panther