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

Heidi stepped onto the red carpet in a shimmering leopard print mini dress by Roberto Cavalli, and wrapped herself in a fuzzy chocolate brown cropped coat. —Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 15 Nov. 2025

Ferragamo showed leopard on the runway for spring and summer, while Sergio Hudson went big on zebra. —Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 14 Nov. 2025

The area offers an opportunity for viewing the Big 5, including a host of rhinos and lions, and even some leopards. —Chris Wallace, Travel + Leisure, 14 Nov. 2025

Dog attacked by leopard in India The Supreme Court of India issued an order directing all states and union territories to remove stray dogs from public spaces -- including schools, universities, hospitals, and transport hubs -- sparking a debate about animal welfare. —Rajeev Tyagi, ABC News, 13 Nov. 2025

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