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

But the coyote has other plans and rips it up, forcing the matter to trial. — ArsTechnica, 31 Aug. 2026

The biggest question, jurisprudentially speaking, was whether the coyote’s injuries warranted compensation. — Zach Helfand, New Yorker, 31 Aug. 2026

According to the facility, the coyote’s activity and apparent health seem good, but veterinarians will have to examine her up close before making any official diagnoses. — Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 28 Aug. 2026

Guests will learn about local birds, squirrels and coyotes, and also the history of the graveyard. — Jaclyn Cosgrove, Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 2026

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