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

Be assertive if a coyote nears, N.C. wildlife officers advise. —Joe Marusak, Charlotte Observer, 12 Apr. 2025

After Tommy has witnessed a murder, a coyote stops and stares at him, reflecting his internal turmoil. —Fred Topel, Deadline, 5 Apr. 2025

Earlier on March 7, a coyote bit a man in his open garage in the Factoria neighborhood. —Audrey Conklin, Fox News, 17 Mar. 2025

Entire herds of mule deer and elk use the structures, as well as bears, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes and foxes. —Catrin Einhorn, New York Times, 4 Mar. 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