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 result is a more intimidating cousin of last season’s leopard obsession, with enough personality to make even the simplest outfit look considerably more interesting. — Camila Quimper, Footwear News, 13 Oct. 2026

Getty Images The all-black caterpillars are likely the larvae that result in the giant leopard moth. — Ray Petelin, CBS News, 12 Oct. 2026

While leopards remain characteristically elusive during my stay, Zambezi National Park rewards in other ways. — Charukesi Ramadurai, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Oct. 2026

The pattern, whether rendered in black and white or a soft melange of browns, is just as much a neutral as any kind of leopard print, but feels particularly well suited to contrast this season’s bold use of color. — Laura Jackson, Vogue, 9 Oct. 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