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

Stewart stood out in a hot pink jacket over a white outfit, which also featured a hint of his signature leopard print, while his wife wore a pink shirt with a peach design and a matching skirt. —Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 20 June 2025

Dresses include a minidress with short sleeves is available in dark indigo and cream, a leopard print swing dress and a sleeveless mini dress with tie in the back for a more fitted look. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 16 June 2025

Photo: Getty Images The recent Vogue cover star opted for a leopard print crepe mini-dress with an open back and ruched front, with black open-toed pumps. —Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 11 June 2025

The bystander was wearing a leopard print or camo jacket. —Mara H. Gottfried, Twin Cities, 10 June 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