laughing hyena

noun

: spotted hyena

Examples of laughing hyena in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This curved, laughing hyena is a reference to the Laffer Curve, a famous — and controversial — economic theory named after economist Arthur Laffer. — Greg Rosalsky, NPR, 11 Aug. 2026 The story takes place at a watering hole where lots of jungle animals have congregated, including a laughing hyena. — Katy Waldman, The New Yorker, 31 Dec. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1790, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of laughing hyena was circa 1790

Rhymes for laughing hyena

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Browse Nearby Words

laughing gull
laughing hyena
laughing jackass
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Laughing hyena.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/laughing%20hyena. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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