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

Options range from a larger, suede shoulder bag, to more compact styles, oversized totes, fitting for weekending and more, and trending leopard-print, too (one of Hailey Bieber’s go-tos). —Cortne Bonilla, Vogue, 15 Dec. 2025

Instead of looking sloppy, however, Lawrence looked effortlessly elegant, thanks to a luxurious cream coat and leopard-print shoulder bag. —Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 13 Dec. 2025

The expression on the leopard’s face is the cherry on top. —Emily Temple, Literary Hub, 11 Dec. 2025

Her leopard-print sneakers that instantly add a pop of color and personality. —Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 8 Dec. 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