coyote

noun

coy·​ote kī-ˈō-tē 

chiefly Western

ˈkī-ˌōt 

plural coyotes or coyote

1

: a buff-gray to reddish-gray swift carnivorous mammal (Canis latrans) of North America that is closely related to but smaller than the wolf, has a narrow pointed muzzle and triangular ears, hunts singly or in small groups, and is known for its various distinctive vocalizations (such as barks, yips, and howls)

Note: The coyote is often considered a threat to livestock. Despite being hunted and trapped, the coyote has expanded its original range and is found in all states except Hawaii.

2

slang : one who smuggles immigrants into the U.S.

Illustration of coyote

• coyote 1

Examples of coyote in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Meanwhile, the big brands are salivating like cartoon coyotes. —Adam Erace, Fortune, 21 Nov. 2025

That was the guy who killed cats, coyotes, a few bears and some wolves that were left. —Mike Fleming Jr, Deadline, 17 Nov. 2025

The findings indicate that conflict rose overall during drought, with the strongest increases occurring in mountain lions, coyotes and bobcats, according to the paper. —Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 12 Nov. 2025

We are constantly threatened by dogs, coyotes, snakes, owls, hawks…and worst of all…you. —Clarence Schmidt, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Mexican Spanish, from Nahuatl coyōtl

First Known Use

1759, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for coyote

• brodie
• dhoti
• doty
• roti
• throaty
• quixote

Kids Definition

coyote

noun

coy·​ote kī-ˈōt-ē  ˈkī-ˌōt 

plural coyotes or coyote

: a tannish gray to reddish gray North American mammal related to but smaller than the wolf